Access the car safety rating information online about any car or truck that you intend to purchase. This information is collected in an Australian database, is the result of a multitude of car or truck accidents over time, and how a variety of vehicles performed in accidents.

The Basis for Car Safety Ratings

The car safety ratings are based on two sets of criteria: crash worthiness and aggressivity. Crashworthiness refers to the degree of protection provided to the passengers in the event of an accident. These factors include safety features such as auto design, safety belts, airbags, and interior padding.

Aggressivity is the level of expected damage a vehicle can inflict on another vehicle in the event of an accident. These factors include weight, body rigidity, and body dimensions.

These two factors together form the basis for a car safety rating and will inform the consumer if a particular type of car or truck will withstand a crash, the extent of damage this vehicle will cause another, and the design measures taken to protect the passengers of the vehicle.

Your Decision to Purchase

When today's consumer buys a car, he or she will most often buy a used car. Unquestionably, some cars are safer models than others. So, it is better to know the safety of a car prior to purchasing it rather than afterwards. With the vehicles identification number, you can go to web sites such as CARFAX and search for a particular car's safety rating in addition to the complete car backgrounds history. Buy confidentially, informed, and safely for yourself and others on the road.