WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced Tuesday it is enhancing its rollover ratings system, adding a dynamic track test.
NHTSA said the new tests will use the so-called "fishhook" maneuver -- a series of abrupt turns at varying speeds. A computerized steering system will be used in each test vehicle to maintain objectivity.
About 10,666 people were killed last year in U.S. rollover crashes, up 5 percent from 2001. And 61 percent of all occupant fatalities in sport utility vehicles and 45 percent of pickup truck deaths were the result of a rollover crash.
By contrast, 22 percent of passenger car fatalities in 2002 were the result of a rollover crash.
NHTSA Administrator Jeffrey Runge said: "Consumers need to consider rollover risk when they shop for a new vehicle. Our rating system will give them the information they need to make a wise choice."
