The federal agency, under the Department of Transportation (DOT), which is responsible for reducing deaths, injuries and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle crashes. NHTSA sets and enforces safety standards for motor vehicle equipment, and funds efforts by local and state governments to improve highway safety. In recent years NHTSA has been active with such automotive safety issues as drunk driving, seat belt usage, air bags, child restraints, and the sometimes well-publicized automotive “recalls”.