We know that safety will always be a top priority when hitting the road. When it comes to this, a seat belt is one of the most vital safety features in a vehicle that goes hand in hand with your airbag system. While it holds you tightly in position, the airbag serves as a cushion to protect your body in case of a car collision.
But did you know that there are various types of seat belts that you can get for your car? In this article, we’ll share with you five common seat belt types available in today’s market:
Lap belt
The lap belt is said to be the most basic type of all. As the name suggests, the belt usually goes over your lap and gets locked in place. This is the kind of device that you often see in a bus or even an airplane. It provides the least protection among all types, as it may not totally stop you from being ejected out of your vehicle. Yet, it will work in a vehicle collision that isn’t high impact.
Shoulder belt
A shoulder belt is rarely found in the market today. As with a lap belt, this one is also another type of two-point belt. It is usually secured at the shoulder and the hip to secure your upper body. As a three-point belt has taken the scene in recent time, this type has become already old and outdated. Apparently, it is no longer as superior as the one with three points in terms of providing safety protection.
Three-point belt
The three-point belt has gradually become popular over the past years for vehicle safety, which was introduced into the market by the Swedish carmaker, Volvo. This was an innovation made and designed to foster the utmost safety of all drivers hitting the road. This type stretches across your upper body—from your shoulder down to your waist on the opposite side. The chances are that you’re even wearing one inside your car today!
Automatic seat belt
An automatic car seat belt is designed to work automatically for your convenience. Keep in mind, however, that it’s not entirely automatic. It looks like the three-point system, but the difference lies in how they work in two separate parts. While the lap belt is tightened manually, the shoulder belt automatically moves into place once you switch in your vehicle.
Belt-in-seat (BIS)
The Belt-in-Seat system is actually an alternative to the three-point belt. However, the difference lies in the fact that the three points are secured to the BIS and not the vehicle frame itself. It’s good to know that this type of belt may provide additional protection during rollover accidents, as shown by some studies.
Conclusion
Seat belts are indeed effective safety mechanisms installed in modern vehicles. Whether you are interested in a lap belt, automatic belt, or BIS, know that they must not be taken for granted for your own protection. Be sure that they are in top shape and working condition so that you and your passengers will be able to take advantage of them in case of a vehicle collision for safety!
Here at Safety Restore, we offer pre-and post-accident services in Westfield, MA. These include airbag module reset, webbing replacement, instrument cluster repair, and seat belt repair. If you need seat belt replacement or repair, check our package and add it to your cart today!
