NHTSA announces new SaferCar app for iPhone

Hoping to make it easier for the millions of Apple iDevice owners to have real-time access to a full range of vehicle safety information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s SaferCar.gov site, NHTSA has unveiled a new "SaferCar" app that can be downloaded at the iTunes store. The app allows consumers to search the organization’s 5-Star Safety Ratings by make and model, get help in the proper way to install a child car seat, file a vehicle safety complaint, stay up to date on the latest safety headlines and alerts, find recall information and even subscribe to automatic notices about vehicle recalls.

Also: 10 Coolest Cars Under $25,000

In addition to launching the SaferCar app, NHTSA also will give developers real-time access to the data through an Application Programming Interface (API) that will allow them to integrate the information into new and existing apps that will give consumers even more comprehensive access to this potentially life-saving information. 

"Timely, accurate, and accessible safety data is the lifeblood of our agency’s work," said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. "The new SaferCar app literally puts the latest in vehicle safety information directly in the hands of consumers so they can make the appropriate purchasing and other decisions for themselves and their families." Work is currently underway on a similar SaferCar app for use with Android devices.