How do inspectors verify the functionality of a vehicle's seat belts?

Inspectors verify the functionality of a vehicle's seat belts primarily by checking for proper retraction and latching. This process ensures that the seat belts can retract fully when not in use and latch securely when fastened. Proper retraction is crucial for safety because it ensures that the belt can comfortably fit the passenger and remain out of the way when not needed.

Additionally, functional latching confirms that the seat belt stays securely in place during travel, which is essential for protecting occupants in the event of a collision. A functioning seat belt system is critical for vehicle safety, as it directly impacts the effectiveness of the restraint system.

While factors like color coding, frayed edges, and the belt's length are important for overall inspection, they do not directly assess the belt's operational effectiveness, which is why checking for proper retraction and latching is the most critical step in verifying the functionality of seat belts.