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What is a good safety rating for a car?

I’ve been shopping for a new car for a few weeks. While tech and style are high on my list, I also care about safety ratings. My only issue is that I’m not sure what a good safety rating is on a car. What’s considered a good safety rating?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Scrutinizing safety ratings is an important part of any car purchase. However, deciphering the system can be challenging.
Fortunately, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have clearly defined rating systems. A good safety rating for a car is:
  • A four- or five-star safety rating from the NHTSA
  • A Good or Acceptable rating from the IIHS
Many things factor into what safety rating a car earns, but namely, the major criteria are:
  • Rollover crash test
  • Frontal crash test
  • Side crash test
  • Number of advanced safety features
  • Headlight type
  • Roof strength
  • Head restraints and seats
Even if you buy a car with a stellar safety rating from the NHTSA or the IIHS, you still need a car insurance policy to protect it. But don’t overpay when you don’t have to. Instead, hop on the
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