What is the role of the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI)?

The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) was founded in 1972 as a supporting organization to the IIHS. Its primary function is to compile and publish insurance loss statistics related to traffic collisions and the resulting damages, categorized by vehicle type.

How does the IIHS evaluate vehicle safety in frontal crash tests?

The IIHS evaluates vehicles across six individual categories in frontal crash tests, assigning each a rating of 'Good', 'Acceptable', 'Marginal', or 'Poor'. These individual ratings contribute to an overall frontal impact rating for the vehicle.

What distinguishes the IIHS's moderate overlap frontal test from the government's NHTSA NCAP tests?

The IIHS's moderate overlap test, introduced in 1995, differs from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) because the IIHS test is offset. While NHTSA standards focus on head-on impacts, the IIHS test involves only 40% of the vehicle's front striking a deformable barrier.

Describe the parameters of the IIHS moderate overlap frontal test.

In the moderate overlap frontal test, 40% of the front of the vehicle impacts a deformable barrier at approximately 40 mph (64 km/h). This specific type of offset impact represents a small fraction of all car crashes but is equivalent to a vehicle hitting a parked car at a much higher speed, around 75 mph (121 km/h).

Why are vehicles of different weights not directly comparable in IIHS frontal impact tests?

Vehicles across different weight categories are not directly comparable in IIHS frontal impact tests because heavier vehicles generally have an advantage in collisions with lighter vehicles or in single-vehicle crashes. This was demonstrated when three minicars were rated 'Poor' against three midsize cars that received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in special offset head-on tests.

How did the IIHS update its moderate overlap test in December 2022?

In December 2022, the IIHS updated the moderate overlap test to include a second crash test dummy in the rear passenger seat. This change aimed to assess the effectiveness of seat belt protections for rear occupants, similar to those already evaluated for front passengers.

What were the findings of the IIHS's updated moderate overlap test in December 2022?

Following the update to include rear passenger safety, nine out of fifteen small SUVs tested received an overall 'Poor' rating due to high injury measurements to the head, neck, and chest of the rear dummy, indicating a need for improved rear seat belt systems.

When was the small overlap frontal test introduced, and how does it differ from the moderate overlap test?

The small overlap frontal test was introduced by the IIHS on August 14, 2012. It is more demanding than the moderate overlap test because it impacts only 25% of the vehicle's front end against a solid barrier at 40 mph, placing greater stress on the vehicle's structure.

What are the key differences in the IIHS's rating system for the small overlap frontal test?

For the small overlap frontal test, the IIHS rating system replaces individual leg ratings with combined hip/thigh and lower leg/foot assessments. Additionally, a vehicle cannot achieve a full score if the front and side curtain airbags do not deploy, due to the significant side movement often experienced in this type of crash.

What types of injuries are associated with small-overlap collisions, and why is this test significant?

A study by the Medical College of Wisconsin found that small-overlap collisions can lead to increased injuries to the head, chest, spine, hip, and pelvis. The IIHS notes that these types of crashes account for 25% of frontal crash deaths, often initiated by the outer front wheel impacting the barrier.

When did the IIHS begin testing the passenger side in small overlap frontal tests?

The IIHS began conducting the small overlap frontal test on the passenger side of vehicles in 2017.

Describe the IIHS side impact test and its purpose.

Introduced in 2003, the IIHS side impact test involves a stationary test vehicle being struck on the side by a four-wheeled sled with a deformable barrier at 31 mph (50 km/h). This test is designed to simulate the impact of a high-riding pickup truck or SUV striking the subject vehicle.

What changes were made to the IIHS side impact test in 2019, and when did they take effect?

In 2019, the IIHS modified its side impact test by using a heavier sled, altering the barrier design, and increasing the impact speed from 31 mph to 37 mph (60 km/h). The IIHS cited the original test's lack of realism as the reason for these changes, which officially began in 2021.

What were the results of the IIHS's updated side impact tests for small and midsize SUVs?

In the new, tougher side impact tests, only one out of 20 small SUVs received a 'Good' rating. For midsize SUVs tested in May 2022, ten earned 'Good' ratings, two received 'Acceptable' ratings, and six were rated 'Marginal'.

What percentage of U.S. passenger vehicle fatalities are related to rollovers, and what safety features help mitigate this?

Rollovers accounted for nearly 25% of passenger vehicle fatalities in the United States. Features such as electronic stability control are proven to significantly reduce rollovers, while lane departure warning systems and rollover-sensing side curtain airbags can also help minimize injuries.

How is the IIHS roof strength test conducted, and what is the criterion for the highest rating?

In the roof strength test, a vehicle is positioned on a platform, and a hydraulic metal plate diagonally pushes on the roof area above the side windows. To achieve the highest rating, the vehicle's roof must withstand a force equivalent to at least four times its curb weight before collapsing 5 inches (130 mm).

When was the IIHS roof strength test discontinued?

The IIHS roof strength test was discontinued in 2022.

What was the purpose of the IIHS's 50th Anniversary crash test conducted in 2009?

The IIHS conducted a 50th-anniversary crash test in 2009, pitting a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air against a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu in a 40% offset crash at 40 mph. The test aimed to dramatically illustrate the advancements in automotive safety over five decades.

What did the 50th Anniversary crash test reveal about the safety differences between the 1959 Bel Air and the 2009 Malibu?

The crash test showed that the 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air's occupant compartment was severely damaged, and the lack of modern safety features like airbags and seat belts resulted in crash test dummy forces that would likely have been fatal for a real driver. In contrast, the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu benefited from sophisticated engineering and high-strength steel, providing a significant safety advantage.

What is assessed in the IIHS head restraint evaluation test?

The head restraint evaluation test assesses the effectiveness of a vehicle's driver seat head restraints by simulating rear-end collisions. The driver's seat is placed on a sled that mimics impacts at 20 mph, which are common and can lead to whiplash injuries.

When was the IIHS head restraint evaluation test discontinued?

The head restraint evaluation test was discontinued by the IIHS in 2022.

How does the original IIHS vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision avoidance test work?

In the original vehicle-to-vehicle test, an engineer drove a test car toward a rolling, cushioned box simulating another car. Ratings of 'basic', 'advanced', or 'superior' were awarded based on whether the vehicle's front crash prevention system met government criteria and could reduce speed or avoid collisions at 12 mph and 25 mph.

When was the original vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision avoidance test discontinued?

The original vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision avoidance test was discontinued by the IIHS in 2022.

Describe the current IIHS vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision avoidance test.

In the current vehicle-to-vehicle test, an engineer drives the test car at speeds of 31, 37, and 43 mph toward various targets: a semitrailer, an impactable car, or a motorcycle. Points are awarded based on the timeliness of collision warnings and the extent to which the vehicle slows down or maneuvers to avoid the collision.

What are the different scenarios evaluated in the IIHS vehicle-to-pedestrian test?

The IIHS vehicle-to-pedestrian test includes three scenarios: an adult walking perpendicular to traffic, a child darting out from behind parked vehicles, and an adult walking parallel to traffic. Each scenario is tested at two different speeds to assess the vehicle's autobraking capabilities.

What speeds are used in the vehicle-to-pedestrian test scenarios?

For the first scenario (adult walking perpendicular), speeds are 12 mph and 25 mph. For the second scenario (child darting out), speeds are also 12 mph and 25 mph. For the third scenario (adult walking parallel), speeds are 25 mph and 37 mph.

When did the IIHS begin evaluating headlight performance, and what were the initial findings?

The IIHS began releasing ratings for headlight performance in March 2016. Initial tests on family cars revealed that most earned 'Marginal' or 'Poor' ratings, with only the Toyota Prius V (when equipped with specific headlights) receiving a 'Good' rating.

What were the results of the IIHS headlight evaluations for small SUVs and pickup trucks?

In July 2016, the IIHS found that none of the tested small SUVs earned a 'Good' rating for headlight performance. Later, in October 2016, the Honda Ridgeline was the only pickup truck to receive a 'Good' rating for its headlights when equipped with specific options.

What is the IIHS Top Safety Pick (TSP) award?

The Top Safety Pick (TSP) is an annual award given by the IIHS to vehicles that demonstrate the best performance in crashworthiness and crash prevention. It recognizes vehicles that meet stringent safety criteria.

What are the updated criteria for the IIHS Top Safety Pick award as of February 2023?

As of February 2023, a vehicle must achieve 'Good' ratings in the moderate overlap front, driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, and the updated 2021 side test to qualify for the Top Safety Pick award. Additionally, headlights across all trims must be rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable'.

Which criteria were removed from the Top Safety Pick evaluation in 2023, and why?

Ratings for roof strength, head restraints, and vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention were removed from the overall Top Safety Pick evaluation in 2023. This change was made because nearly all tested vehicles were performing well in these specific categories.

Insurance Institute For Highway Safety Wiki: IIHS: Engineering Road Safety

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About the IIHS

Mission and Foundation

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute (IIHS-HLDI) is an American nonprofit organization established in 1959. Its primary function is to conduct comprehensive safety reviews of vehicles across various simulated traffic scenarios. These reviews assess a vehicle's structural integrity during collisions and evaluate improvements in safety systems.

Data-Driven Safety

The organization is renowned for its rigorous testing protocols and its commitment to providing objective data that influences automotive design and public safety policy. By analyzing real-world insurance loss statistics and conducting advanced crash simulations, the IIHS-HLDI aims to reduce losses from vehicle crashes.

U.S. Focus, Global Impact

While headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, USA, the IIHS's findings and safety standards have a significant influence on global automotive safety practices. Their research contributes to safer vehicle designs worldwide, ultimately aiming to prevent injuries and fatalities on the road.

Historical Trajectory

Origins and Early Development

The IIHS was founded in 1959 by three prominent insurance groups: the Association of Casualty and Surety Companies, the National Association of Automotive Mutual Insurance Companies, and the National Association of Independent Insurers. Initially conceived as a supporting entity for academic and research organizations focused on highway safety, it evolved significantly over the years.

Transition to Independent Research

Under the leadership of its inaugural president, Russell Brown, until 1968, the organization laid its foundational groundwork. Following a pivotal change by its board of governors, the IIHS transitioned into an independent scientific organization. Physician William Haddon Jr. assumed the presidency the following year, ushering in an era where the IIHS began conducting its own crash tests, starting with low-speed bumper evaluations.

Establishment of HLDI

In 1972, the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) was established as a supporting organization to the IIHS, fulfilling the latter's original mandate to compile and publish insurance loss statistics. HLDI's data focuses on vehicle-related incidents, including traffic collisions and consequential damages, providing crucial real-world context to the IIHS's experimental findings. The organization itself is often referred to interchangeably as IIHS-HLDI, reflecting the synergistic relationship between the two entities.

Rigorous Testing Methodologies

Frontal Crash Tests

The IIHS employs sophisticated frontal crash tests to evaluate vehicle safety. These tests are designed to simulate various real-world collision scenarios and assess occupant protection.

Moderate Overlap Frontal Test

Introduced in 1995, this test differs from government standards by impacting only 40% of the vehicle's front end with a deformable barrier at approximately 40 mph (64 km/h). This offset impact represents a significant percentage of real-world crashes. In December 2022, the test was updated to include a second crash test dummy in the rear seat to evaluate seat belt effectiveness for rear passengers.

Small Overlap Frontal Test

Launched in August 2012, this more demanding test impacts only 25% of the vehicle's front end against a solid barrier at 40 mph (64 km/h). It is designed to challenge vehicle structures beyond the capabilities of the moderate overlap test, revealing potential weaknesses in occupant protection during severe, off-center impacts. This test has been applied to a wide range of vehicles, including family cars, compacts, SUVs, minivans, muscle cars, and pickup trucks.

Side Impact Test

The side impact test simulates collisions involving higher-riding vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs impacting a passenger vehicle. The test involves a moving barrier striking the side of the vehicle.

Initially introduced in 2003, the test was significantly modified in 2019 with a heavier sled, altered barrier design, and an increased impact speed from 31 mph (50 km/h) to 37 mph (60 km/h). This updated test began in 2021 and has been applied to various SUV classes, with results indicating that many vehicles struggle to achieve high ratings under these more stringent conditions.

Rollover and Other Tests

The IIHS has historically evaluated other critical safety aspects, including roof strength and head restraint effectiveness, though some of these tests have been discontinued as vehicle performance improved.

Roof Strength Test

Introduced in 2009, this test assessed a vehicle's ability to withstand rollover crashes, a significant cause of fatalities. Vehicles were required to withstand a force equivalent to four times their curb weight before collapsing 5 inches. This test was discontinued in 2022.

50th Anniversary Crash Test

In 2009, the IIHS conducted a dramatic comparison, crashing a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air head-on against a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu at 40 mph. The results starkly illustrated the advancements in automotive safety engineering over five decades, with the older vehicle's occupant compartment sustaining severe damage, likely resulting in fatal injuries.

Head Restraint Evaluation

This test, conducted from 2005 until 2022, evaluated the effectiveness of head restraints in preventing whiplash injuries during rear-end collisions. It simulated low to moderate speed impacts.

Frontal Collision Avoidance Evaluation

This category assesses active safety systems designed to prevent or mitigate crashes. It includes:

Vehicle-to-Vehicle Tests: Evaluating systems that warn and brake at various speeds (discontinued in its original form in 2022, replaced by updated V2V and V2P tests).
Vehicle-to-Pedestrian Tests: Assessing autobraking systems' ability to detect and avoid pedestrians in multiple scenarios (walking adult, child darting out, adult walking parallel) at different speeds.

Headlight Evaluation

Beginning in March 2016, the IIHS began rating the performance of vehicle headlights, assessing their effectiveness in various lighting conditions. Initial results showed that most vehicles earned marginal or poor ratings, with only specific configurations achieving good ratings.

Safety Accolades

Top Safety Pick (TSP)

The Top Safety Pick (TSP) award recognizes vehicles that achieve high marks in IIHS crashworthiness evaluations. As of recent updates, vehicles must earn "Good" ratings in the moderate overlap front, driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, and the updated side tests. Additionally, headlight ratings across all trims must be "Good" or "Acceptable."

Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+)

The Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) award represents an even higher standard of safety. Vehicles qualifying for this award must meet all TSP criteria and demonstrate excellent performance in the nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention test, indicating superior safety performance even under challenging low-light conditions.

Evolving Criteria

The IIHS periodically updates its award criteria to reflect advancements in vehicle safety technology and to address emerging safety challenges. For instance, criteria related to roof strength, head restraints, and original vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention were removed from the TSP evaluation in 2023 due to widespread high performance, while the nighttime pedestrian test became a key differentiator for the TSP+ award.

Related Organizations

U.S. Safety Agencies

The IIHS operates alongside other key organizations in automotive safety. Its testing methodologies and ratings are often compared and contrasted with those of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a U.S. government agency.

Global Assessment Programs

The IIHS is part of a broader international landscape of New Car Assessment Programs (NCAPs). These programs, found across various regions like Europe (Euro NCAP), Asia (ASEAN NCAP, JNCAP), and Australia (ANCAP), share the common goal of evaluating and improving vehicle safety through standardized testing.

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References

"Insurance Notes: Insurance Institute Created to Push Highway Safety," Chicago Daily Tribune (January 12, 1959), c5.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. The AI has strived to maintain the factual integrity of the source material while adhering to the specified formatting and stylistic guidelines.

This is not professional automotive safety advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment related to vehicle safety engineering, automotive design, or regulatory compliance. Always refer to official documentation from the IIHS and consult with qualified automotive safety professionals for specific applications or concerns. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of information presented here.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

IIHS: Engineering Road Safety

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About the IIHS ℹ️

🏢 Mission and Foundation

📊 Data-Driven Safety

🌐 U.S. Focus, Global Impact

Historical Trajectory 📜

🤝 Origins and Early Development

🔬 Transition to Independent Research

📈 Establishment of HLDI

Rigorous Testing Methodologies 💥

🚗 Frontal Crash Tests

Moderate Overlap Frontal Test

Small Overlap Frontal Test

🛡️ Side Impact Test

🔄 Rollover and Other Tests

Roof Strength Test

50th Anniversary Crash Test

Head Restraint Evaluation

Frontal Collision Avoidance Evaluation

Headlight Evaluation

Safety Accolades 🏆

⭐ Top Safety Pick (TSP)

✨ Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+)

💡 Evolving Criteria

Related Organizations 🔗

🇺🇸 U.S. Safety Agencies

🌍 Global Assessment Programs

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About the IIHS

Mission and Foundation

Data-Driven Safety

U.S. Focus, Global Impact

Historical Trajectory

Origins and Early Development

Transition to Independent Research

Establishment of HLDI

Rigorous Testing Methodologies

Frontal Crash Tests

Side Impact Test

Rollover and Other Tests

Safety Accolades

Top Safety Pick (TSP)

Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+)

Evolving Criteria

Related Organizations

U.S. Safety Agencies

Global Assessment Programs

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice