Seat belt myths debunked: How they save lives and aid escape

Many drivers still repeat the myth that sometimes it's better not to wear seat belts because they believe that in the event of an accident, it's better to be thrown out of the car than to suffocate or burn inside it. Meanwhile, seat belts have saved countless lives during accidents. Moreover, they can be crucial even when getting out of the vehicle is difficult.

After an accident, car doors can be so damaged that they cannot be opened from the inside. It is easier to do this from the outside because we have a more stable leverage point, and with the help of another person, you can try to force them open. Firefighters often use this method and less frequently resort to using equipment to cut the car body.

However, there are situations where immediately exiting the vehicle is crucial for our safety. For example, when the car starts to burn, is in a place at risk of another collision, or has fallen into the water, seat belts can prove invaluable.

It is worth paying attention to the so-called buckle, sometimes referred to by manufacturers as a tongue. This is the metal part inserted into the lock, also known as the latch. It is an exceptionally sturdy element made of thick steel that fits well in hand.

This element can break the side window to enable you to exit the vehicle. Of course, a hammer (such as those in buses) is more convenient, but usually, we don't have anything more accessible than the seat belt buckle. It’s worth remembering this should the need arise, which, of course, we wish upon no one.