Why is the proper adjustment of a seatbelt critical for safety?

The proper adjustment of a seatbelt is critical for safety primarily because it ensures minimal movement during accidents. When a seatbelt is fitted correctly, it restrains the occupant securely in their seat, preventing excessive forward motion during a collision. This helps to reduce the risk of serious injuries caused by impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield. A well-adjusted seatbelt spreads out the forces experienced in a crash across the stronger parts of the body, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the restraint system and increasing the chances of surviving a crash without severe injury.

On the other hand, while comfort during long rides might be a concern, it does not directly impact safety. The legal requirement for wearing seatbelts underscores their importance but does not inherently relate to how they minimize injury during an accident. Fuel consumption is unrelated to seatbelt adjustment and thus does not pertain to the role of seatbelts in vehicle safety.