What is the function of crash attenuators?

Crash attenuators are specifically designed to reduce the severity of collisions by spreading the force of impact when they are struck. They are usually placed in front of fixed objects, such as highway barriers or concrete walls, to absorb collision energy and minimize damage to vehicles and their occupants. By effectively managing the impact forces, crash attenuators help to prevent more serious injuries and fatalities during accidents.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of crash attenuators. For instance, increasing vehicle visibility pertains to different safety measures such as lighting and reflective materials. Providing additional seatbelt support deals with restraining passengers during a crash, which is unrelated to the function of crash attenuators. Enhancing engine performance pertains to vehicle efficiency and power, which is outside the scope of crash safety measures. Thus, the focus of crash attenuators on dissipating collision forces is what makes their role vital in road safety engineering.