Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

Testing and ratings

IIHS conducts a suite of laboratory and on-road evaluations. Its vehicle assessments examine how well passenger vehicles protect occupants and vulnerable road users in common crash scenarios and how effectively vehicle technologies prevent crashes. Major test categories include:

• Crashworthiness tests — small-overlap, moderate-overlap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraint evaluations.
• Crash avoidance and mitigation — performance of automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning and other driver‑assistance systems.
• Visibility and lighting — headlight performance and pedestrian-visible lighting.
• Child occupant protection — evaluations of child safety seats and installation ease.

Results are reported in consumer-friendly grades (for example, Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor) and through award programs such as industry-recognized safety picks that help buyers compare models.

History and organization

IIHS was established in 1959. It maintains a headquarters and research facilities in the Washington, D.C., area and has grown from a small laboratory into a multi-disciplinary institute with engineers, behavioral researchers and statisticians. The organization states that it is supported by a broad group of insurers; many of these companies contribute to institute funding as a way to improve public safety and reduce insurance losses. For information about funding sources see funding details, or location and contact information at headquarters.

Research, outreach and policy role

Beyond laboratory testing, IIHS analyzes crash data, studies roadway design, and examines driver behavior to identify effective countermeasures. It publishes peer-reviewed reports and plain-language summaries for the public. While the institute engages with legislators and regulators to explain research findings when asked, its bylaws distinguish educational outreach from direct lobbying; IIHS describes its role in policy discussions on pages such as mission and goals and organizational policy. Readers can find statements on advocacy and legal positions at governance.

Uses and importance

Consumers use IIHS ratings to compare vehicles for crash protection and collision-avoidance capabilities; manufacturers use test results to improve designs; insurers and fleet operators use findings to inform purchasing and premium decisions. IIHS research also informs roadway engineering and traffic safety countermeasures, such as improved intersections or speed-management strategies. For examples of vehicle and product evaluations see vehicle research and consumer product testing.

Notable facts and distinctions

IIHS is distinct from regulatory agencies: it does not set legally binding standards but influences safety through independent testing and public reporting. Its awards—often labeled "Top Safety Pick"—can affect market perception and manufacturer priorities. The institute's scope covers vehicles, restraint systems and elements of road design; for further information about specific programs and datasets consult pages such as highway safety objectives, road research and additional resources at related programs.

For readers seeking primary materials or technical reports, the institute's publications and data releases are available through official channels and selected summaries supplied to stakeholders and the media; details on outreach and data access are described at contact and publications and research overviews at funding and reports.