What is a major risk factor for drivers who do not use seat belts?

The assertion that not using a seat belt significantly increases the risk of being thrown from the vehicle during a crash highlights one of the most critical safety concerns associated with seat belt use. Seat belts are designed to secure the occupant in place and prevent excessive movement during a collision. When a driver or passenger is unrestrained, the likelihood of being ejected from the vehicle dramatically increases, which greatly heightens the risk of serious injury or fatality.

While facing a ticket from law enforcement is a possibility when seat belts are not used, the legal consequence does not pose an immediate physical risk in the same way that being ejected from a vehicle does. Additionally, causing delays in traffic or falling asleep at the wheel do not directly relate to the immediate consequences of not wearing a seat belt but rather address other aspects of driving behavior and traffic safety. In terms of safety, the primary concern remains the physical harm that can result from being unrestrained in a vehicle during a crash, making the risk of being thrown from the vehicle a key factor in promoting seat belt usage.