National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is responsible
for reducing deaths, injuries, and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle
crashes. NHTSA sets and enforces safety performance standards for motor vehicles
and equipment, and through grants to state and local governments, enables them
to conduct effective local highway safety programs. NHTSA investigates safety
defects in motor vehicles, sets and enforces fuel economy standards, helps states
and local communities reduce the threat of drunk drivers, promotes the use of
safety belts, child safety seats and air bags, investigates odometer fraud,
establishes and enforces vehicle anti-theft regulations and provides consumer
information on motor vehicle safety topics. Research on driver behavior and
traffic safety is conducted by NHTSA to develop the most efficient and effective
means of bringing about safety improvements. A toll-free Auto Safety Hotline,
1-888-DASH-2-DOT, furnishes consumers with a wide range of auto safety information.
Callers also can help identify safety problems in motor vehicles, tires, and
automotive equipment such as child safety seats. (Source:
www.dot.gov/summary.htm)