For years, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of car safety testing in the United States, particularly regarding the protection of women. Current regulations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) allow car companies to use crash test dummies that are based on male anatomy and dimensions from 40 to 50 years ago. These dummies don't accurately reflect the physical characteristics of the average woman.
Critics argue that this outdated testing practice puts women at a higher risk of injury in car accidents. More modern, technologically advanced dummies are available, offering a more realistic representation of the female body. These advanced dummies can provide more detailed data on how women's bodies react in crashes, allowing manufacturers to design safer vehicles.
Now, Congress is taking action to address this issue. Lawmakers are considering legislation that would require NHTSA to update its testing standards and mandate the use of crash test dummies that better represent the female population. This potential change aims to ensure that car safety features are designed and tested with women's safety in mind, ultimately reducing the risk of injuries in car accidents.
Congress Aims to Improve Car Safety Testing for Women
Current U.S. car safety tests often use outdated dummies that don't accurately represent women's bodies. These older dummies don't reflect the average female height, weight, or body type. Congress is now considering new rules to ensure car manufacturers use more modern and representative testing methods. This could lead to safer vehicles for female drivers and passengers.
Source: Read the original article at NBC