Final Answer:
Even if the vehicle is equipped with an airbag, wearing a safety belt is crucial because the seat belt complements the airbag's protective function by preventing occupants from being thrown forward or out of the vehicle during a collision.
Step-by-step explanation:
While airbags provide an additional layer of protection in the event of a crash, they are designed to work in conjunction with seat belts, not as a substitute. Seat belts restrain occupants within the vehicle, preventing them from being ejected or thrown forward upon impact. The airbag then serves as a supplementary safety measure, deploying to cushion and protect the restrained occupants.
Wearing a seat belt is crucial to maximizing the effectiveness of both safety features. In a collision, the combined use of seat belts and airbags significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or fatality, emphasizing the importance of adhering to both safety measures for optimal vehicle occupant protection.