Insurance industry giving more vehicles a top safety rating

Auto InsuranceAccording to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s vehicle tests for the 2012 models, a tremendous 115 achieved the “Top Safety Pick” rating.

This was the case even for the 2012 vehicle base models, as they must now include electronic stability control, antilock brakes, multiple airbags, and a tire pressure sensor monitor. The more expensive models included additional safety features such as blind-spot warning alerts and lights, and backup cameras. As a result, deaths from traffic incidents are declining.

According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2010, deaths in traffic accidents dropped to the lowest level that they’ve seen in over 60 years.

The Top Safety Pick list included 15 vehicles from the Toyota Motor Corp., including models from the Scion and Lexus divisions. For the first time in its existence, the Camry – one of the top selling models in the United States – had its name added to the list for its rear impact protection provided by the head/seat restraint design.

In second place, was General Motors Co., which had 14 of its vehicles added to the list, including models from its Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC divisions.

The title of most improved automaker was given to Honda Motor Co., which had 10 of its vehicles in its Honda and Acura division son the list following roof upgrades on several models.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety explained that the tests involved the ability of the vehicle to protect its driver and passengers from rear-end, front, side, and rollover crashes. There were 3 pickups, 5 minivans, 38 SUVs, and 69 cars that made it to the list for their 2012 models.

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