Post by : Badri Ariffin

The U.S. government is taking significant strides to improve vehicle safety for women by initiating the redesign of the female crash test dummy. This new design seeks to more accurately mirror the female body's structure, a necessary update given historical data that reveals women are at a heightened risk in vehicle accidents.

Until now, crash test dummies have predominantly been modeled on male physiques, with the standard version dating back to 1978. Although there are smaller female dummies available, they feature a rubber breast covering and are seldom utilized in the driver’s seat, despite women representing the majority of licensed drivers today. Research indicates that women are 73% more likely to sustain injuries and 17% more prone to fatalities in head-on collisions compared to their male counterparts.

The new dummy design boasts over 150 sensors, accurately representing female anatomy, including variations in the neck, collarbone, pelvis, and legs. The Department of Transportation intends to eventually integrate this updated model into their National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's five-star rating program, although final regulatory approvals are still pending.

Advocates for the redesign, such as Maria Weston Kuhn, a law student and crash survivor, have long campaigned for Legislative action. Kuhn suffered severe internal injuries in a 2019 accident due to a seat belt that did not fit her correctly, highlighting the pressing need for more realistic testing measures.

Nevertheless, some car manufacturers express reservations. They argue that the updated model might exaggerate injury risks and undermine the perceived effectiveness of safety features like airbags and seat belts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which is supported by auto insurance providers, continues to endorse current female dummies, asserting that notable safety advancements have already been made.

Despite these differing viewpoints, there is a growing bipartisan consensus in Congress. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Deb Fischer both praised the initiative, emphasizing that enhanced safety standards could avert numerous injuries and fatalities annually. Fischer’s She Drives Act aims to mandate the use of premier testing tools, including the new female dummy, ensuring all drivers benefit from refined research on safety.

The Department of Transportation has provided specifications for manufacturers, enabling carmakers to start integrating the new dummy into their testing regimes. Although widespread adoption may take some time, experts view this advancement as a crucial step in addressing gender disparities in automotive safety.

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