A timeline of key milestones in the history of vehicle safety.

Volvo introduces the seat belt. It remains the most beneficial car safety device of all time.

Volvo introduces a padded dashboard, in an attempt to reduce facial/chest injuries from frontal collisions.

First mechanical anti-lock brakes based on aircraft technology, introduced on the Jensen FF, a hand-built luxury sports car.

All cars sold in the UK must be fitted with front seat belts.

Volvo offers front-seat head restraints, aimed at protecting the head and neck in rear-end crashes.

Mercedes-Benz S-class is the first production car with electronic ABS.

Mercedes-Benz S-class is the first production car with a driver's airbag.

Becomes compulsory to wear front seat belts in the UK.

High-level third brake light is introduced by Volvo.

New cars sold in the UK must be fitted with rear seat belts.

Rear seat belts, if fitted, must be worn by children under 14 years in all cars driven in the UK.

Seat belts, if fitted, must be worn by all rear seat passengers including adults.

Pioneering crash tests carried out by European consumer organizations. Test method later adopted by Euro NCAP.

Euro NCAP established. Super minis are first to be tested, with the Rover 100 scoring just one star. It is withdrawn from sale 22 months later.

First car to be awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating for occupant protection to the Renault Laguna II.