On Tuesday, October 5, 2010 an updated 5 Star Vehicle Safety Rating System was introduced. The new rating system has tighter standards which may make some previously 5 star rated vehicles less safe. The new system evaluates how vehicle perform in front, side and rear crashes. Another change that will take effect is that the crash tests dummies used will now also resemble women drivers. Safety measures will also allow and include for more crash avoidance and prevention. The upgraded system will also evaluate side pole crash testing and crash prevention technologies.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is recommending that all consumers purchase vehicles with crash avoidance technologies that meet the new 5 star rating system. The new technologies include forward collision warning, lane departure warning and electronic stability control.
The new rating system can be further reviewed at http://www.safecar.gov/.
