Which of the following vehicle occupant protection methods deploys in a collision?

The correct answer is air bags. Air bags are designed as a supplementary safety feature that deploys in the event of a collision. They are built into various parts of a vehicle, such as the steering wheel and dashboard, and inflate rapidly during a crash to provide a cushioning effect for the occupant, thus reducing the risk of injury.

Unlike air bags, seat belts and car seats do not deploy; they are passive protection methods that must be used correctly and are always in place to restrain occupants during a crash. Seat belts help secure the occupant to the seat and prevent them from being thrown forward or ejected during a collision. Car seats serve a similar purpose for young children, providing a secure environment compliant with safety guidelines. Helmets are protective headgear primarily used by motorcyclists, bicyclists, and other riders, but they do not deploy or offer additional cushioning like air bags do during a collision.