Safest Cars of 2024: Discover the Safest Cars Based on Your Needs

Every journey behind the wheel carries an inherent risk. In 2022 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 6.7 million car accidents reported in the United States. While we can't eliminate risk entirely, choosing a safe car is one of the most important decisions you can make as a driver. This article will guide you through the factors that contribute to car safety, explore the top contenders for the safest cars of 2024, and help you find the perfect car that prioritizes both your needs and your well-being.

What Makes a Car Safe?

Car safety isn't just about how well a car holds up in a crash. It's a combination of factors that work together to prevent accidents in the first place and to protect occupants in the unfortunate event of a collision. Here are some key elements that contribute to a car's overall safety:

• Crashworthiness: This refers to a car's ability to absorb impact and protect passengers during a collision. Features like crumple zones, airbags, and a strong safety cage all play a role in crashworthiness.

• Driver-Assistance Features: These technologies, like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, can help drivers avoid accidents altogether.

• Preventative Technologies: Features like blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras can improve a driver's awareness of their surroundings and potential hazards.

Who Determines Car Safety?

There are two leading organizations that evaluate car safety in the United States:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): This government agency conducts crash tests and assigns overall safety ratings to vehicles from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 stars being the safest.

• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): This non-profit organization conducts a more rigorous set of crash tests than the NHTSA and awards vehicles with designations like "Top Safety Pick" (TSP) and "Top Safety Pick+" (TSP+). The TSP+ designation signifies the highest level of safety according to the IIHS.

Understanding these ratings can be a valuable tool when comparing the safety of different car models. However, it's important to note that both NHTSA and IIHS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

Top Contenders for Safest Cars of 2024

Car safety isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. The "safest" car for you will depend on your specific needs and lifestyle. Let's explore some of the top contenders for the safest cars of 2024, categorized by vehicle type:

Safest Sedans:

• 2024 Acura Integra: This sporty sedan boasts a TSP+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.

• 2024 Mazda 3: Both the sedan and hatchback versions of the Mazda 3 have earned a TSP+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. They offer a comprehensive list of standard safety features, making them a great choice for safety-conscious drivers.

• 2024 Toyota Corolla: This long-time favorite for reliable transportation also shines in terms of safety. The 2024 Corolla receives a TSP rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning with steering assist.

Safest SUVs:

• 2024 Honda CR-V: This popular SUV continues to be a leader in safety. It has earned a TSP+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The CR-V offers a generous list of standard driver-assistance features, making it a great choice for families.

• 2024 Hyundai Palisade: This spacious SUV offers exceptional safety features. The 2024 Palisade has earned a TSP+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and highway driving assist.

• 2024 Kia Telluride: The Telluride shares the platform and many safety features with the Palisade, making it another top contender in the safe SUV category. It has earned a TSP+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Safest Pickups:

• 2024 Toyota Tacoma: This mid-size truck offers a good balance of capability and safety. The 2024 Tacoma has earned a TSP rating from the IIHS and a 4-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. While not a top scorer on the NHTSA test, it still offers a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. It's important to note that some safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, are only available on higher trim levels.

• 2024 Ford F-150: America's best-selling truck doesn't skimp on safety. The 2024 F-150 has earned a TSP rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offers a long list of standard and available driver-assistance features, making it a safe choice for truck enthusiasts.

• 2024 GMC Canyon: This mid-size truck prioritizes safety. The 2024 Canyon has earned a TSP rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking and forward collision alert. Higher trim levels offer additional features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.

Safety Feature Deep Dive: Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is a driver-assistance technology that can help prevent accidents or lessen their severity. Here's how it works: AEB uses a forward-facing camera or radar to detect potential obstacles in the road ahead. If the system senses an imminent collision and the driver doesn't take corrective action, AEB will automatically apply the brakes to slow the vehicle down or bring it to a complete stop.

Studies have shown that AEB can be incredibly effective in reducing rear-end collisions. According to the IIHS, vehicles equipped with AEB are involved in up to 50% fewer front-to-rear crashes with injuries. This technology is a valuable addition to any car's safety arsenal.

Remember, safety ratings are a starting point, not the finish line. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing the safest car for you:

Choosing the Safest Car for You

Finding the perfect car involves striking a balance between safety, your lifestyle needs, and your budget. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

• Family Size & Cargo Space: If you have a family, you'll need a car that can comfortably seat everyone and accommodate all your cargo. Look for SUVs or minivans with good safety ratings and ample space.

• Teen Driver Safety: If you have a teen driver in the household, prioritize features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. These features can provide an extra layer of protection for young drivers who are still developing their driving skills. The IIHS website offers a specific section dedicated to "Top Safety Picks for Teens" which can be a helpful resource.

• Budget: Safety shouldn't come at a premium. There are many safe and affordable car options available. Consider looking at cars that have earned good safety ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS and compare prices across different makes and models.

• Driving Habits: If you commute long distances or frequently drive on highways, consider features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist. These features can help reduce fatigue and make long drives more manageable.

Where to Find Safety Ratings:

Safety ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS are readily available online. You can find them on the respective organization's website by searching for the specific car model you're interested in.

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website: https://www.nhtsa.gov/

• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website: https://www.iihs.org/

Once you've narrowed down your options based on safety ratings and your individual needs, it's always a good idea to take a test drive to get a feel for the car and ensure it's comfortable and practical for your everyday life.

AmeriFreight and Your Safe Car Journey

Now that you've found the perfect safe car, AmeriFreight can help you get it home securely. We are a nationwide auto shipping broker with a proven track record of safely transporting vehicles across the country. We offer a variety of shipping options to fit your needs and budget, and our team of experienced professionals will handle all the logistics for you. Get a free quote on shipping your new car today and experience the AmeriFreight difference!