Cars have come a long way over the years. They’re faster, more efficient, and safer than ever before. But with each new model that comes out, there are always skeptics who wonder if the new car is as good as the company says it is. This article will take a look at recent studies that compare the safety ratings of newer and older models. Is it worth upgrading to a newer car? Let’s find out.
Speed Limits and Seatbelts
Two other important safety features are speed limits and seatbelts. Both of these have been shown to reduce the number of deaths and injuries in crashes.
A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that speed limits have a significant impact on crash fatalities. The study found that for every 1 mph increase in the posted speed limit, there was a 3% increase in fatal crashes. However, as the Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer points out – not everyone abides by the speed limit, which is why it’s also important to wear a seatbelt. If you’re involved in a crash while wearing a seatbelt, you’re much less likely to be killed or injured.
The study also found that seatbelt use has a significant impact on crash fatalities. The study found that for every 1% increase in seatbelt use, there was a 2% decrease in fatal crashes.
The NHTSA also looked at the effect of seatbelts on crash fatalities. The study found that for every 1% increase in the use of seatbelts, there was a 0.6% decrease in fatal crashes. Additionally, seatbelts are getting more effective over time. Newer seat belts are better at restraining occupants in a crash and reducing injuries.
The Almighty Airbags
One of the most important safety features in any car is the airbag. In the event of a crash, airbags are designed to deploy and protect the occupants of the vehicle. But how do newer airbags compare to older ones?
A recent study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) looked at how different types of airbags performed in crashes. The study found that frontal airbags have come a long way over the years.
Newer frontal airbags are larger and more effective than older ones. Side-impact airbags have also improved, but they’re not as common as frontal airbags. Only about half of the vehicles tested had side-impact airbags.
The Battle of the Bumpers
Another important safety feature on any car is the bumper. Bumpers are designed to absorb the impact of a low-speed collision and protect the rest of the car from damage. But not all bumpers are created equal.
A recent study by Consumer Reports looked at how well different types of bumpers performed in low-speed collisions. The study found that front and rear steel bumpers performed the best, while plastic and aluminum bumpers did not fare as well. The foam-filled composite bumpers were in the middle of the pack.
The study also found that newer cars are more likely to have steel bumpers than older models. This is good news, as steel bumpers are much more effective at absorbing impact than plastic or aluminum bumpers.
Additional Features
Other safety features can help to reduce the number of deaths and injuries in crashes. These include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and head restraints.
Anti-lock brakes have been shown to reduce the number of fatal crashes by 20%. Stability control can reduce the number of fatal crashes by 50%. And head restraints can reduce the risk of serious injury by 60%.
On the other hand, some features that are designed to improve safety can have the opposite effect. This is the case with larger SUVs and pick-up trucks. These vehicles are more likely to roll over in a crash, which can increase the risk of serious injury or death. If you’re considering buying an SUV or pick-up truck, be sure to research its safety rating before making your purchase.
Frontal and Side-Impact Tests
In general, newer cars tend to perform better than older cars in frontal and side-impact tests. This is thanks to advances in safety technology, such as airbags and stronger frame constructions. In a frontal impact test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Chevrolet Impala from 2018 received a “Good” rating, while the Impala from 2009 only received a “Marginal” rating.
However, when it comes to rollover tests, newer cars don’t necessarily fare any better than older cars. In fact, in a study conducted by Consumer Reports, it was found that SUVs from 2006 were just as likely to roll over as SUVs from 2016.
So, are newer cars safer than older models? The answer is yes.
Newer cars have better safety features that can help to protect you in a crash. If you’re involved in a crash, these features can make a big difference.
But remember, no matter how safe your car is, it’s still important to wear your seat belt.
Featured image: Volvo Cars.
