HSIS is a roadway-based system that provides quality data on a large number of crash, roadway, and traffic variables. It uses data already being collected by agencies for managing the highway system and studying highway safety. The data are acquired annually from a select group of States and one municipality, processed into a common computer format, documented, and prepared for analysis.

HSIS is used in support of the FHWA safety research program and provides input for program policy decisions. HSIS is also available to professionals conducting research under the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, universities, and others studying highway safety.