The results of a recent crash test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety might make consumers think twice before getting four brands of full-sized 2009 pickups.

The research group reveals that the Nissan Titan which is not equipped with airbags for side impacts and the Silverado from Chevrolet were rated “poor” during the tests.

“Marginal” ratings were issued for the Dodge Ram that comes standard with side-impact airbags. The crew cab version of the Silverado was assessed as poor while the Titan that comes optional with airbags was also rated marginal.

The GMC Sierra also did not fair well getting the same ratings as its sibling, the Chevrolet Silverado.

The IIHS issues ratings in four categories: good, acceptable, marginal, poor.

The institute cited the side impact protection of the pick-ups tested as wimpy considering that these vehicles are classified as work horses of the consumers.

The group though points to other results which are not at all disappointing for the market. Three pick ups survived the side impact crash testing getting “good” marks. The test simulates a collision with another SUV or pickup cruising at 31 mph.

The models that got the “good” rating from the auto insurers’ research group were the Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tundra, and the Ford F-150. These three vehicles come standard with airbags that can protect the occupants during side impacts.

All the pickups received “good ratings” for front collision simulations done at 40 mph.

Considering the size advantage, vehicles like the Ram, Titan, and Silverado must also be designed to protect the occupants in the event of road mishaps.