According to Gov.uk, 1,760 road-related fatalities were recorded in the UK last year. While this number may seem high, it represents a 7 per cent decrease from the previous year, no doubt thanks in part to the innovative safety features found in newer car models.  The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) crash tests new vehicles as they are released and gives them a rating based on their performance. According to their findings, here are the top cars that have received the maximum 5-star rating:

1)    Volvo V40

Rated best in its class of small family cars by the NCAP, the Volvo V40 scored high marks across the board, receiving a 98 per cent rating for adult occupant protection, 75 per cent for child occupant, 88 per cent for pedestrian protection, and 100 per cent for safety assist features. As well as the standard front airbags, the car comes equipped with side body and head airbags and a knee airbag for the driver.

2)    Ford Kuga

This small off-road 4×4 also did extremely well in NCAP crash testing, receiving a 94 per cent for adult occupant protection, 86 per cent for child occupant, 70 per cent for pedestrian protection, and 100 per cent for safety assist features. The report noted that the Kuga performed especially well in the side barrier test and that its advanced seatbelt and head restraint technology would reduce the instance of whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.

3)    Hyundai Santa Fe

Those looking for a larger off-road vehicle might consider the Hyundai Santa Fe, which received an impressive score of 96 per cent for adult occupant protection, 89 per cent for child occupant, and 71 per cent for pedestrian protection. While it may be lacking something in safety assist features compared to the other vehicles on this list, it performed exceptionally well in protecting all body regions during the side barrier test and the more severe side pole impact.

4)    Renault Clio

The Renault Clio may be small, but it sure is mighty. The super-mini vehicle earned a score of 88 per cent for adult occupant protection, 89 per cent for child occupant protection, and 99 per cent for safety assist. It scored lower than the other cars on the list for pedestrian protection (66 per cent), but did receive maximum points for protection to pedestrians’ legs. It scored maximum points for protection of an 18-month-old dummy sitting in the backseat of the car as well.

5)    BMW 3 Series

Rounding out the top 5 is the BMW 3 series, which won the NCAP’s distinction for best large family car. Its top-notch safety features helped it earn a rating of 95 per cent for adult occupant protection, 84 per cent for child occupant protection, and 78 per cent for pedestrian protection. It provided exceptional protection in the side barrier test and the severe side pole test.

Even with the best safety features, serious injuries and fatalities can occur in a car collision. If you’ve suffered a severe injury, contact the solicitors at Irwin Mitchell to file a compensation claim.