However, the tests do reinforce real world crash experience which shows that when struck in a side impact collision, SUVs are more prone to rollover than other vehicle types. The star ratings for the vehicles that rolled over one-quarter turn are indicated by a special mark placed beside the stars to indicate when this occurred. In the attached tables, the safety information is provided from both the frontal and side NCAP tests. The federal safety agency said the side crash used to test these passenger cars simulates a typical intersection collision between two vehicles. In the tests, forces are measured on two crash dummies when a moving, deformable barrier is impacted at an angle into the side of a car at 38.5 mph.
Instruments measure the force of impact to the dummy's chest and pelvis.
The chest data, which shows the chance of life-threatening injury, is signified in a single rating reflected by the number of stars. Pelvic injury also is measured. If a high likelihood of pelvic injury occurs in the lateral test, the consumer is also informed of this possible injury by a pound symbol. Test results show the relative crash protection provided to occupants using all of the vehicle's occupant protection equipment. Occupant protection equipment consists of seat belts, air bags, or a combination of both.