When you’re choosing a new car, safety should always be at the top of your list. Modern vehicles are packed with advanced features, but how do you know which models offer the best protection for you and your family? That’s where safety ratings come in. Organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provide trusted, independent evaluations that help buyers make informed decisions. At Homer Skelton Hyundai in Olive Branch, here’s why these ratings matter and what to look for.
1. Understanding NHTSA Ratings
NHTSA uses a 5-star rating system to evaluate how well a vehicle protects occupants in a crash. These tests include:
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Front-impact collisions
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Side-impact collisions
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Rollover resistance
A higher star rating means the vehicle performed better during testing. Cars that score 5 stars overall offer excellent protection and typically include strong engineering, crumple zones, and advanced restraint systems. This rating is especially helpful for families or commuters who want reassurance on the road.
2. What IIHS Safety Awards Mean
While NHTSA focuses heavily on crash performance, IIHS digs even deeper. They evaluate how well a vehicle avoids crashes in the first place. IIHS awards two primary honors:
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TOP SAFETY PICK
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TOP SAFETY PICK+ (the highest award)
These evaluations include tests for:
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Small-overlap front crashes
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Moderate-overlap front crashes
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Side-impact protection
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Roof strength
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Head-restraint performance
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Headlight quality
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Crash-avoidance systems like automatic emergency braking
A TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating means the car excelled in nearly every category, including advanced driver-assist technology. For many buyers, this is one of the most influential badges a vehicle can earn.
3. Why Safety Ratings Should Influence Your Decision
Safety ratings provide peace of mind because they rely on standardized, unbiased testing—not marketing or manufacturer claims.
Higher-rated vehicles often include:
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Better crash-impact protection
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Improved structural design
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Enhanced airbag systems
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More reliable driver-assistance features
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Smarter headlight and visibility systems
Even if two vehicles look similar or share the same features, safety ratings can highlight meaningful differences in real-world protection.
4. Pair Ratings With a Personal Test Drive
Once you’ve identified top-rated models, test drive them to see how they feel. Visibility, seating position, braking response, and technology ease-of-use matter just as much as crash scores. At Homer Skelton Hyundai, we’ll walk you through each safety feature so you feel confident from day one.
Final Thoughts
A new car isn’t just a purchase—it’s a commitment to your safety and the safety of everyone you drive with. By understanding and comparing trusted safety ratings, you can make a smart, informed decision that pays off for years to come.
I am here to help you find a vehicle that delivers the perfect combination of protection, performance, and peace of mind. Contact me anytime!
Fredrick Ard
(479) 866-6708
Homer Skelton Hyundai
