When we get into the car, our first instinct is to automatically fasten the seat belt. It must be snug, positioned as close to the body as possible and without knots or folds. We are so used to it that we do not dwell on the elements that make it up.
However, if you pay more attention to it, you will notice that the seat belt has something unknown whose function is not to be overlooked.
First of all: safety
Vehicle safety has come a long way since Carl Benz patented the first motor car in the late 1800s. The motor vehicle was such a new concept that most people initially did not consider the dangers.
Over time, it became obvious that driving a motor vehicle carried some degree of risk. Thus, theand early belts were added to many vehicles in the 1930sbut they were rarely used.
Over the next two decades, belts became a subject of controversy. It was feared that they could trap people in vehicles or cause internal injuries. Research then showed that the seat belt saved lives and did far more good than harm.
The first belt mandate was issued in 1970 in Victoriain Australia.
The function of the button on the seat belt
Indispensable and essential, the seat belt remains the key element to protect the driver and passengers in the event of a road accident, collision or sudden braking. This safety tool is mandatory and must be worn under all circumstances while the car is in motion.
But, next time, before buckling it up, take a closer look at the belt. You will notice that there is a small button on it. Which you have surely seen before, but you will never have wondered what it was actually used for.
In fact, it’s kind of a limiter. Thanks to this button, the belt buckle will always remain in the same place and will not slide down. This small button makes it easy to fasten the seat belt without having to look for the buckle that tends to slide under or behind the seat.
In addition, it allows you to adjust the length of the tape to avoid having strong pressure on the chest or pelvis. It thus allows a variable safety margin between 5 and 7 cm.
What to do if the belt gets stuck
Although the seat belt does not require special maintenance, it is still necessary to pay attention to its correct functioning, because its performance is essential in an emergency.
Regularly check that it is not defective or malfunctioning due to clogging or breakage of the mechanism. Check that the band is rolled up properly, that it is not warped or torn. In general, after a car accident, if it has been damaged, it is highly recommended to replace it.
Tip: Do not try to repair a seat belt yourself. Especially if you don’t have the means or the knowledge to do it. This element of the car is very sensitive and it is therefore better to consult a specialist in the sector.
In some cases, dirt or grease residues can compromise the correct functioning of the belt. If it does not roll up properly or even does not roll up at all, the advice is to remove all the masking tape and wash it thoroughly with a mixture of soap and water until it is clean.
Once dry and clean, apply silicone lube all over the band. You will be surprised to see that the winding speed has significantly improved.
Keep in mind that seat belts not only hold our body in place to prevent it from hitting the windshield or dashboard, but also serve to maintain proper posture to reduce hard blows from a possible impact.
Likewise, when it comes to rear passengers, they avoid unpleasant forward collisions that can disturb the driver and his passenger on the right. Seat belts therefore play an important role: however, in the back, many people forget they are wearing them. For everyone’s safety, try to get into the habit of using them.
