A review of some studies that have led to the adoption of federal motor vehicle safety standards and of the standards themselves was made (e.g. the high-mounted brakelamp; marking of large trailers). Other studies that were not used to create federal standards were also reviewed if they were used as the basis for adoption of vehicle characteristics (e.g. daytime running lamps). The rationale for such implementations is criticized. Other vehicle design aspects are also reviewed such as head-up displays and vision aids in conditions of reduced visibility.