What is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the Department of Transportation agency which is responsible for reducing deaths, injuries and economic loss from motor vehicle crashes. NHTSA sets and enforces safety performance standards for motor vehicles and equipment, and provides grants to state and local governments to conduct highway safety programs.

NHTSA investigates safety defects in motor vehicles, sets and enforces fuel economy standards, helps states and communities reduce the threat of drunk drivers, promotes safety belt use along with 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. 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.