There are two types of restraints, active and passive. A safety belt that must be buckled manually is an active restraint. A passive restraint does not require fastening or action by the passenger. An air bag or automatic seat belt is a good example of a passive restraint.

The use of your safety belt is required by law. If your car was originally equipped with front anchors, it must have a safety belt in good working order. You and your front seat passengers must wear a safety belt while the car is moving. If not, you or your passenger (age 17 or older) may be given a traffic ticket for not wearing a safety belt.