From January to August 2023, 232,378 motor vehicle accidents in Florida led to 1,975 fatalities and 148,296 injuries. Since our state can be dangerous to drive in, understanding the factors contributing to vehicle safety and staying informed about the safest car options is essential. Vehicles receiving the ‘Top Safety Pick’ award from the IIHS are recognized for their advanced safety features and crash test ratings.
There are a lot of factors that go into making a car safe. Organizations around the world conduct rigorous safety assessments and crash tests. These tests provide consumers with valuable information about the safest vehicles on the market. Modern vehicles often include advanced safety features like ‘rear park assist’ to help drivers maneuver in tight spaces.
But no matter how safe a car may be, there are still negligent drivers. If one caused an accident that hurt you or a loved one, The Eberst Law Firm is ready to help. Contact us online or call (772) 225-4900 to learn how we can help you obtain maximum compensation.
Introduction to Car Safety
Car safety is a top priority for many vehicle shoppers, and modern vehicles have more safety features than ever. The safest vehicles are ranked based on their U.S. News safety scores, which take into account advanced safety features and crash test results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Safety features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and rear cross-traffic alert are becoming increasingly common in new cars. The IIHS and NHTSA play a crucial role in evaluating the safety of new vehicles, and their crash tests and safety ratings help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing a vehicle.
Factors Determining Vehicle Safety
The design and construction of a car play a pivotal role in its safety – and vehicles are safer than they’ve ever been. Cars built with high-strength materials and well-engineered structures are better equipped to withstand crashes and protect passengers. Midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Palisade are popular for their spacious interiors and family-friendly safety features. Manufacturers equip modern vehicles with an array of safety features.
These include airbags, Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESP), and traction control. These features mitigate the impact of collisions and help drivers maintain control in emergencies. Evolving safety standards in the auto industry have led to continuous improvements in vehicle safety features.
Vehicles also undergo various crash tests, including front, side, and rollover tests. Organizations evaluate how well cars protect occupants during different types of collisions, assigning ratings based on performance. Crash avoidance technologies are crucial in improving vehicle safety and preventing accidents.
Other innovations like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and automatic emergency braking contribute to accident prevention and safer driving experiences. Standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are becoming more common in modern vehicles.
Yet another safety consideration is the size and weight of a vehicle. While smaller, lighter cars may offer better fuel efficiency, larger and heavier vehicles tend to perform better in crashes due to their enhanced ability to absorb impact forces. Features like heated rear seats enhance comfort and convenience for passengers.
Safety Ratings and Organizations
Several reputable organizations publish yearly safety ratings. These include the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP). Vehicles must achieve an ‘acceptable rating’ in specific crash tests to earn a Top Safety Pick+ designation.
These organizations conduct extensive safety assessments, including crash tests and evaluations of safety technologies. Vehicles with the ‘best safety scores’ are highly sought after by safety-conscious consumers. These assessments encompass various criteria, such as crash tests, safety features, and overall performance in simulated accident scenarios.
The goal is to identify vehicles that achieve high crash test ratings and integrate advanced safety technologies that mitigate the likelihood of accidents and minimize their impact. Achieving a ‘good rating’ in safety tests is crucial for a vehicle’s overall safety assessment. The ‘side crash test’ is an important part of evaluating a vehicle’s safety performance. The ‘overlap test’ conducted by the IIHS is a key factor in determining a vehicle’s safety rating.
Advanced Safety Features
Advanced safety features are designed to prevent or mitigate the effects of a crash. These features include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, and pedestrian detection. Many vehicles also come equipped with active safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Some vehicles also offer more advanced features such as traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and cross-traffic alert.
The availability of these features can vary depending on the vehicle make and model, but they are becoming increasingly common in new cars. The IIHS and NHTSA have implemented stricter testing requirements, including the updated moderate overlap front crash test, to ensure that vehicles meet the highest safety standards. By incorporating these advanced safety features, vehicles can achieve top safety pick awards and provide exceptional safety for their occupants.
Top Safest Cars in America
Some prime examples of vehicles that consistently rank among the safest cars in America include:
- Toyota Camry: The Toyota Camry is known for its well-rounded safety features, strong crash test performance, and reputation for reliability. With advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, the Camry offers an extra layer of protection on the road.
- Honda Accord: The Honda Accord boasts a strong safety record, garnering high marks in crash tests and safety assessments. It features Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features that includes collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
- Subaru Outback: Organizations often recognize the Subaru Outback’s all-wheel-drive system and robust safety features. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, contributes to its reputation for safety.
- Tesla Model Y: The Tesla Model Y stands out with its electric propulsion and advanced driver assistance features under the Autopilot system. Its cutting-edge technology includes features like automatic lane-keeping and self-parking.
- Acura Integra: The 2025 Acura Integra is a compact luxury car that combines engaging performance with advanced safety technology. It boasts impressive safety ratings and a quality interior, making it a strong contender in the entry-level luxury market.
- Mazda CX: The Mazda CX series, including models like the Mazda CX-5, is highlighted for its safety ratings and advanced features. These models offer sporty handling and high interior quality, positioning them as strong contenders in the crossover and SUV market.
- Honda Civic: The Honda Civic is noted for its notable safety ratings and advanced driver assistance technologies. It appeals to both practical drivers and enthusiasts with its varied offerings, including the energetic Civic Type R.
- Genesis G90: The Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan known for its exceptional safety features and high safety ratings. Its award-winning design and AI-assisted crash avoidance systems enhance passenger protection.
- Hyundai Ioniq: The Hyundai Ioniq stands out for its robust safety features and impressive performance metrics. It has high safety scores, standard technological amenities, and a competitive driving range, making it a top choice among electric vehicles.
These models excel in crash test performance and provide a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. These technologies actively prevent accidents and protect passengers.
How to Choose the Safest Car
Choosing the safest car for your needs involves several considerations, including the following:
- Family size: The size and seating capacity of the car should align with your family’s needs, ensuring that everyone can travel safely and comfortably.
- Budget: Set a budget that allows you to consider vehicles with strong safety ratings and advanced safety technologies without compromising financial stability.
- Driving conditions: Consider your typical driving environment. Vehicles with advanced driver assistance technologies can enhance safety if you often drive on busy urban streets or highways.
- Research safety ratings: Consult safety ratings and crash test results from trusted organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS to understand how different models perform in various scenarios.
- Advanced safety features: Prioritize vehicles equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
- Rear parking sensors: These sensors enhance driver safety and support, particularly in higher trim levels where additional safety conveniences are highlighted.
- Trunk space: Ample trunk space is crucial for evaluating a vehicle’s practicality and overall appeal, especially for families and budget-conscious buyers.
- Infotainment system: An advanced infotainment system enhances the driving experience and safety by integrating user-friendly and cutting-edge technology.
- Lane change assist: This feature is important in modern vehicles for enhancing driver safety and convenience, often integrated into comprehensive safety suites.
Other Considerations for Safe Driving
While vehicle safety features are crucial, responsible driving behavior is equally vital in ensuring road safety. Always keep the following in mind when you’re behind the wheel.
- Adhering to traffic rules: Following traffic rules and regulations reduces the risk of accidents and ensures a safe driving environment for all road users. Some vehicles offer more power for better driving experiences and enhanced performance.
- Avoiding distractions: Distractions like texting, phone use, and eating can divert your attention from the road. Stay focused on driving to prevent accidents. The importance of crash safety in evaluating a vehicle’s overall safety performance cannot be overstated.
- Abstaining from impaired driving: Please never take the wheel when under the effects of alcohol or drugs. Driving while impaired substantially increases the chances of causing an accident. The writer’s extensive experience in evaluating other vehicles provides credibility to their assessments.
- Proper vehicle maintenance: Regular vehicle maintenance, including brake checks, tire rotations, and fluid changes. This keeps your car in optimal condition for safe driving.
- Driver training programs: Enroll in driver training programs to improve your driving skills, enhance your understanding of road safety, and foster responsible driving habits.
Contact The Eberst Law Firm if You Get Into a Car Accident
The attorneys with The Eberst Law Firm have extensive experience helping people who have suffered injuries in car accidents caused by another’s negligence. We’ll investigate to determine who was to blame and then pursue them for the compensation you deserve.
Our law firm will do all we can to gather the evidence needed to prove you weren’t responsible. We’ll then work to obtain a fair settlement on your behalf. If the at-fault driver’s insurer refuses to settle, we’ll be ready to take them to trial.
Learn more about how we can help by scheduling a free evaluation of your case. You can call (772) 225-4900 or use our online form.
