For the first time in history, the US government has endorsed a crash test dummy designed to reflect female anatomy, a move intended to improve vehicle safety for women. The change comes after decades of evidence showing that current crash test standards, based on a male-average physique, systematically underestimate the risks women face in collisions.
The Problem with Current Safety Standards
Traditional crash test dummies, developed in 1978, were modeled after a 5’9”, 171-pound man. This design has been linked to higher injury rates for women, who are 73% more likely to be injured in head-on crashes and 17% more likely to die in car accidents than men. While smaller, female-shaped dummies are sometimes used in secondary testing positions (like rear seats), they are rarely placed in the driver’s seat – despite women being the majority of licensed drivers.
How the New Dummy Differs
The approved dummy incorporates over 150 sensors and is designed to more accurately mimic the physiological differences between men and women. This includes variations in neck shape, collarbone structure, pelvis size, and leg dimensions. The goal is to provide a more realistic assessment of how cars protect female occupants during crashes.
Industry Skepticism and Legislative Support
Some automakers have expressed concerns that the new dummy may exaggerate injury risks, potentially impacting safety ratings for existing features like seat belts and airbags. However, bipartisan support from lawmakers, including Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), has pushed for these changes. Senator Duckworth stated bluntly: “There’s simply no good reason why women are more likely to be injured or die in car crashes.” The She Drives Act, sponsored by Senator Fischer, aims to make the use of advanced testing devices, including this female dummy, permanent.
Next Steps and Broader Implications
The Department of Transportation (DoT) will incorporate the new dummy into its five-star vehicle crash test ratings once a final rule is adopted. The department is now making the specifications available for manufacturers to develop models and begin testing.
This decision marks a significant step toward safer vehicle design for all drivers, but it also highlights how long it took to address a clear safety gap that disproportionately affected women. The move underscores the importance of inclusive testing standards in automotive engineering.
