A force-limiting device (4) for a seat belt device having at least two parts (5, 11, 15) controlled with a frequency-dependent, defined movement for energy absorption, wherein the parts (5, 11, 15) that move the parts (5, 11, 15) undergo an undulating movement (Q) directed perpendicular to the feed movement (V) in the course of which the gearings (8, 10, 18, 19) alternatingly engage and disengage. An open spring washer exerts force to move the parts (5, 11, 15) toward one another and can be automatically increased after a preset belt extraction length. The spring washer (6) applies a varying spring force to the parts (5, 11, 15) moving toward one another during the movement.