The U.S. Department of
Transportation has recently proposed high-tech changes to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration’s 5-Star Safety Ratings for new vehicles. This is
the most significant update to car safety ratings since the 1970s. These are
the ratings seen on the window stickers of new cars. These new standards are so
strict that there is not a car on the road today that would earn five or even
four stars.
Among the changes are new
crash tests, including one focused on angled frontal crashes, as well as an
improved full frontal barrier crash test to drive safety improvements for rear
seat occupants. Crash tests will include new high-tech “smart” dummies designed
to better reflect the injuries people suffer from head to toe in an accident.
Other changes to the 5-Star Safety Rating system include an assessment of
additional crash-avoidance and advanced technologies that offer drivers the most
potential for avoiding or mitigating crashes.
The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration believes that these new standards will inspire automakers
to improve the safety of vehicles. “We think as automakers get to five stars,
we’re talking about some of the most significant, life-saving opportunism that
we’ve ever seen in the automotive industry,” said NHTSA administrator Mark
Rosekind. He began the program overhaul a year ago when he took over the
agency.
“Every time NHTSA raises the
bar, automakers get there. Because this is about saving lives, preventing
injuries. And there have been discussions – what should their incentive be?
Save those lives, prevent those injuries, don’t let these crashes happen,” said
Rosekind.
Starting with the 2019 model year, the new car assessment program will include three rankings – adding crash avoidance technology and pedestrian protection to the traditional crash worthiness ranking. It will also include an overall rating.
Accident avoidance technology is already seen
in many vehicles, such as back-up cameras and automatic breaking. The new
standards hope to improve it, however, and force more future vehicles to come
equipped with these features.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
