What is the primary purpose of wearing a seatbelt while driving?

Wearing a seatbelt serves a critical purpose in ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. The primary reason for buckling up is to protect yourself in the event of a collision. Seatbelts are designed to restrain occupants during sudden stops or accidents, significantly reducing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities. They are engineered to distribute the forces of a crash across the stronger parts of the body's structure, thereby minimizing the impact on vulnerable areas.

While it may be important to comply with laws and regulations, and avoiding a ticket is a consequence of wearing a seatbelt, these do not capture the primary safety function of the seatbelt itself. The real value lies in the protection and safety it offers during an accident, making it an essential practice for responsible driving.