Crash Test Ratings: How New Cars Are Evaluated
If you’re in the market for a new car, one of the top concerns on your mind is likely safety. After all, you and your loved ones will be spending a lot of time in this car, and you want to make sure it can protect you in the event of a crash. But how do you know which cars are the safest? That’s where crash test ratings come in. These evaluations are conducted by various organizations and can help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing your next vehicle. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crash test ratings and explore how new cars are evaluated.
The Purpose of Crash Test Ratings
The primary goal of crash test ratings is to inform consumers about how safe a particular vehicle is in a crash. These ratings are based on tests conducted by independent organizations, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The results of these tests can help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing a car, as vehicles with higher crash test ratings are generally considered safer.
Types of Crash Tests
There are two main types of crash tests: frontal and side impact. Frontal crash tests simulate a head-on collision, while side impact tests simulate a T-bone collision. In both tests, the vehicle is crashed into a barrier at a specific speed and the results are measured. These tests are performed using a dummy that simulates the weight, size, and movements of an average adult human. The results are then analyzed to determine how the vehicle holds up in a crash and how much protection it offers to the occupants inside.
How are Cars Rated?
Crash test ratings are typically measured on a scale of one to five stars, with five being the highest rating. The stars represent the vehicle’s safety performance in different categories, such as frontal crash, side crash, and rollover. Overall ratings are also given, based on a combination of all the individual tests. This allows consumers to easily compare the safety performance of different vehicles.
The Importance of Crash Test Ratings
Crash test ratings are important for several reasons. Firstly, they can help consumers make educated decisions when purchasing a new car. Safety should be a top priority when choosing a vehicle, and crash test ratings can give consumers an idea of how well a car will protect them in a crash. Additionally, these ratings can also push car manufacturers to improve the safety features of their vehicles, as better ratings can lead to increased sales.
Updating Standards
The standards for crash test ratings are constantly being updated and improved. This is to reflect advancements in technology and safety features, as well as changing road conditions and driving habits. For example, the IIHS introduced a new type of frontal crash test in 2012 that evaluates the vehicle’s performance in a small overlap front crash. This test simulates what happens when a vehicle hits an object, such as a tree or utility pole, with just the front corner of its bumper.
In Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a new car, safety should always be a top consideration. And with the help of crash test ratings, consumers can have a better understanding of how well a vehicle will protect them in the event of a crash. These ratings are constantly evolving, and it’s essential to stay informed and up-to-date when researching potential cars. So, if safety is important to you, be sure to always check the crash test ratings before making your purchase.
