The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that conducts research and analysis related to vehicle safety. Established in 1959, the IIHS aims to reduce the number of deaths, injuries, and property damage caused by motor vehicle crashes.
The IIHS is primarily known for its rigorous vehicle crashworthiness and crash avoidance evaluations. These evaluations determine how well a vehicle protects its occupants in the event of a crash, as well as the effectiveness of various safety technologies designed to prevent accidents. The organization conducts extensive crash tests, including frontal offset, side impact, and roof strength tests, to assess the structural integrity and protective capabilities of vehicles.
Based on their evaluations, the IIHS provides ratings such as "Top Safety Pick" and "Top Safety Pick+" to vehicles that achieve high scores in their various tests. These ratings help consumers make informed decisions about the safety of different car models.
In addition to crashworthiness ratings, the IIHS also conducts research regarding roadway design, driver behavior, and the effectiveness of safety regulations. They work closely with automakers, government agencies, and other organizations to promote vehicle safety and encourage the adoption of new technologies.
Overall, the IIHS plays a crucial role in improving vehicle safety standards and has become a trusted source for both consumers and industry professionals seeking objective and reliable information about the safety performance of vehicles.
