Steer Toward Safety: A Driver’s Guide To Interpreting Crash Ratings

​When shopping for a new vehicle, features like fuel efficiency, design, and technology often get the spotlight—but safety should never take a back seat. Crash safety ratings provide critical insights into how well a vehicle can protect you and your passengers in an accident. However, understanding what these ratings actually mean can be confusing. This guide will help you confidently interpret crash ratings so you can make safer, more informed decisions on the road.

What Are Crash Ratings?
Crash ratings are assessments of a vehicle’s performance in crash tests conducted by organizations like:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
  Uses a 5-star system to rate vehicle safety in various crash scenarios.
  
  
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
  Uses four levels: Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor across different crash categories and safety evaluations.

These ratings measure how well a car protects occupants during frontal collisions, side impacts, rollovers, and how effectively it prevents accidents with advanced safety tech.


Key Crash Test Categories to Know

1. Frontal Crash Tests
   Simulate a head-on collision. Look for strong ratings in both driver and passenger sides.
   
   
2. Side Impact Tests
   Evaluate how well a car protects from being struck on the side—especially critical for intersections and T-bone crashes.
   
   
3. Rollover Resistance
   Measures the vehicle’s likelihood of rolling over during sudden maneuvers or collisions.
   
   
4. Rear Crash Protection (IIHS only)
   Evaluates seat/head restraint effectiveness in protecting against whiplash injuries.
   
   
5. Roof Strength Test (IIHS)
   Important for SUVs and trucks; assesses roof durability in rollover crashes.
   
   
6. Crash Avoidance & Mitigation
   Rates features like automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, and forward collision alerts.

How to Use Crash Ratings When Buying a Vehicle

• Compare Ratings Across Models
  Don’t rely on brand reputation alone—use NHTSA and IIHS databases to see how each model performs.
  
  
• Prioritize ‘Top Safety Picks’
  IIHS annually designates vehicles that excel in crash tests and safety features.
  
  
• Understand the Full Picture
  A car might score well in frontal crashes but poorly in side or rollover tests. Aim for consistently high ratings.
  
  
• Consider Vehicle Type
  SUVs and trucks may fare differently in crash tests compared to sedans due to weight and structure.
  
  
• Match Safety with Your Lifestyle
  If you frequently carry children or drive in adverse weather, look for vehicles with additional advanced safety systems.

Why Auto Insurance Still Matters—Even with Top Crash Ratings
Even the safest cars can't prevent all accidents. That’s why auto insurance is essential. It provides financial protection for:

• Vehicle repairs or replacement after an accident
• Medical bills for you and others involved
• Liability if you’re responsible for damages or injuries
• Uninsured motorist incidents
• Theft, vandalism, and weather damage (via comprehensive coverage)

Having a highly rated vehicle might reduce your risk—but auto insurance ensures you’re covered when the unexpected happens. It bridges the gap between accident and recovery, offering peace of mind for every mile ahead.


Final Thoughts
Crash ratings offer a valuable roadmap for safer driving—but only if you know how to read them. By understanding what these ratings mean and how to use them during your vehicle search, you’re taking a proactive step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones. Combine that with the right auto insurance coverage, and you’ll be steering confidently toward a safer future.

Safety isn’t just built into your car—it starts with informed choices.

​At McClain Matthews Insurance, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (317) 298-7500. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE. 

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.​