In recent years, the auto industry has placed a significant emphasis on safety, re-engineering both cars and SUVs to incorporate advanced protective features. Recent innovations include enhanced airbags and advanced collision warning systems that not only safeguard occupants during accidents but also help in preventing them. Though fully autonomous vehicles promise a future with reduced human error, the here and now sees the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) issuing annual ratings to guide consumers. The 2018 selections bring to light the safest vehicles currently on the market.

A crucial, often overlooked factor in vehicular safety is the effectiveness of headlights. The IIHS has begun to evaluate this aspect, uncovering wide disparities in night-time visibility provided by different vehicle models. Only those offering "good" or "acceptable" forward lighting configurations made it to the 2024 top safety picks.

Moreover, it's important to note a trend in modern vehicle designs favoring smaller windows, enhancing aesthetic appeal at the potential cost of visibility. This design choice can particularly affect older drivers who may struggle with flexibility and turning to check blind spots.

Highlighted from the IIHS 2024 Top Safety Picks:

Small Cars:

• Chevrolet Volt
• Hyundai Elantra
• Kia Forte
• Mazda 3
• Subaru Impreza
• Toyota Corolla
• Toyota Prius

Midsize Cars:

• Honda Accord
• Hyundai Sonata
• Kia Optima
• Nissan Altima
• Nissan Maxima
• Subaru Legacy
• Toyota Camry

Large Cars:

• Kia Cadenza
• Toyota Avalon

Midsize SUVs:

• Honda Pilot
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Kia Sorento
• Mazda CX-9
• Toyota Highlander

Safety isn't just about passive features like airbags or the structural integrity of the vehicle. Active safety elements such as electronic stability control and blind-spot warnings play a crucial role in accident prevention. According to the NHTSA, nearly half of all fatalities in a recent year occurred among individuals not using seat belts or other restraints. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of both vehicle design and personal responsibility on the road.

Defensive driving and choosing a vehicle equipped with the latest safety technology can significantly reduce risks. For a comprehensive list of the safest cars as rated by the IIHS for 2024, visit their official website.