The latest auto models are equipped with modern safety features that play a major role in keeping you and your passengers safer on the road. In addition, factors like the braking system, the body design, the headlights, and others also play a role in vehicle safety. Vehicle safety ratings take into account numerous factors, making it easier for shoppers to compare models. The two primary organizations that test new models for safety are the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Research NHTSA Safety Ratings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducts extensive tests to determine how well vehicles perform in rollover accidents as well as frontal and side collisions. Several other criteria beyond performance in crash tests are reviewed as well, including the ease of use for child-seat anchors and how well the headlights perform. The NHTSA rates vehicles through its 5-Star Safety Rating program in each area with five stars being the safest. The latest models are reviewed and rated annually, and the results for each test as well as for overall safety are published.
Review IIHS Safety Ratings
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also has a vehicle safety rating program. Its Top Safety Pick program puts models through six types of crash tests and reviews the effectiveness of specific model features. The six crash tests are side-impact, roof stretch, moderate overlap front, small overlap front, and head restraint. The IIHS labels vehicles as Top Safety Pick or a Top Safety Pick+ based on their performance in the tests. A Top Safety Pick+ rating requires a vehicle to receive the top score of “good” in all of the crash tests. It also must have a “good” or “acceptable” score for its headlights’ performance.
Compare Different Models
Typically, automakers tout excellent NHTSA and IIHS safety acknowledgments, such as on a model’s website page and in various offline promotional materials. As you review the models that interest you, the model pages on the automakers’ website are an excellent resource. If you are open to a wider variety of models, you can also find lists online of the top-ranking models for specific body types, such as full-size sedans or mid-size SUVs.
Read Consumer Reviews
The NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings allow you to compare different models’ performance in controlled environments. In addition to reading these reviews, take time to explore consumer reviews. These reviews shed light on the functionality and reliability of different safety features through daily driving experiences. Keep in mind that safety features vary from trim to trim, so it is important to review the trim levels and optional packages once you refine your search to a specific model.
Explore Your Options Today
With respected auto safety organizations conducting thorough reviews on the latest models, shoppers today have access to extensive information on how well vehicles perform in a variety of situations. As you search for a new vehicle, pay attention to both the NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings to make a well-informed buying decision.
