What type of seat belt is required for passengers in a 1970 model or newer vehicle?

Passengers in a 1970 model or newer vehicle are required to use a lap belt for each passenger and a shoulder harness for those sitting in the front seat. This safety requirement reflects advancements in vehicle safety design and acknowledges that modern vehicles are equipped with more sophisticated seatbelt systems.

The lap belt helps to secure the passenger in place during sudden stops or collisions, reducing the risk of injury. In addition to this, the shoulder harness further enhances protection by restraining the upper body, significantly lowering the chances of severe injuries in the event of an accident.

This combination of lap and shoulder restraints is crucial for optimizing passenger safety, especially in the front seat, where the impact in a collision is often more severe. It's important to note that while older models may have had fewer safety features, vehicles produced from 1970 onward have been designed with improved safety systems in mind, necessitating the use of this dual-approach seatbelt system.