Side impact testing is a little tougher for a car to pass with flying colors. Nailing a 'good' rating from the IIHS in side impact testing means the vehicle has, at a minimum, been fitted with side airbags to protect occupants heads when the car is struck from the side, or 'T-Boned'. The IIHS notes that studies indicate side curtain airbags can significantly reduce the fatality rate in serious side-impact situations. If side airbags are optional on your next ride, be sure to opt for them.
Rear impact performance is important as well- though the IIHS says it's the trickiest test for vehicles to score well in. If you're rear-ended, whiplash injuries are the most common- occurring when your head accelerates forward at a faster rate than the rest of your body. Vehicles with active head restraints tend to boast better scores in this department, as specially designed headrests work to reduce whiplash-related injuries.
Want to make sure your next ride is as protective as possible? One sure bet is to see is the model in question is rated as an IIHS "Top Safety Pick". Achieving this rating means the vehicle must come with Electronic Stability Control and get 'good' ratings in all impact tests. Think of the "Top Safety Pick" as a seal of approval from one of the most highly-recognized safety authorities in the industry. Vehicles that have it can be purchased with confidence by the safety-minded shopper, and if your brand of choice sells any vehicles with the designation, they'll want to tell you about it.
photo:Jupiter images, Euro NCAP
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Rear impact performance is important as well- though the IIHS says it's the trickiest test for vehicles to score well in. If you're rear-ended, whiplash injuries are the most common- occurring when your head accelerates forward at a faster rate than the rest of your body. Vehicles with active head restraints tend to boast better scores in this department, as specially designed headrests work to reduce whiplash-related injuries.
Want to make sure your next ride is as protective as possible? One sure bet is to see is the model in question is rated as an IIHS "Top Safety Pick". Achieving this rating means the vehicle must come with Electronic Stability Control and get 'good' ratings in all impact tests. Think of the "Top Safety Pick" as a seal of approval from one of the most highly-recognized safety authorities in the industry. Vehicles that have it can be purchased with confidence by the safety-minded shopper, and if your brand of choice sells any vehicles with the designation, they'll want to tell you about it.
photo:Jupiter images, Euro NCAP