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Remember the PSA with the wise-cracking Crash Test Dummies in the ‘80s designed to get kids to wear their seat belts? You might also remember how they generally looked the same – same build, size, and shape. The commercials may be a pop culture relic, but the practice of using the dummies has continued through today. However, the models of the dummies have largely stayed the same – until now.
Diversifying Body Types
A crash test dummy manufacturer and a trauma surgeon have joined forces to make vehicles safer. New crash test dummies are being designed that are more consistent with the American population. The dummies are different in two ways: some of them are larger, weighing in at over 250 pounds, and others have a body structure that is similar to elderly people. This is one of the most major and drastic changes to the dummies since they were implemented in vehicular safety tests and demonstrations in the 1950s.
The problem with crash test dummies today is that they’re based on the size of an average male, even discriminating against women’s bodies in that regard as well. We often rely on the ratings of the crash tests in determining which cars to buy, but those crash test figures may not be accurate if you’re not an average sized male. Having a diversity in body types in crash test dummies means that car manufacturers can design their cars to better protect their customers. This long overdue change can have a massive effect on car safety and could potentially prevent types of injuries that were previously overlooked.
Why This Matters
Numerous factors impact how someone is injured in the accident, from the speed of the car at the time of the accident to the make of vehicle. Add age and body type to that list as well. Insurance companies think that everyone is injured exactly the same way and use computer programs to determine how much you should be injured and how much you should be treated by a doctor, but each individual reacts differently to an accident. This determines the risk not just by the person’s size, body structure and how quickly they can heal, but also the person’s position in the seat and how the impact occurred all play a part in the time it takes for you to recover. The more these type of safety tests are expanded to account for diversity in body types and health, the more that can be done to prevent serious injuries.
If You’re Injured
Even with all the precautions happening behind the scenes, accidents do still happen. Should you find yourself dealing with the ramifications of a car crash, it’s important to get regular treatment per your doctor’s orders to heal fastest. People that don’t get treatment right away are just prolonging their treatment period. Oftentimes, the recovery period takes longer if you wait months or even years if not taken care of right away. That’s why it’s important after an accident to get evaluated by a doctor and to follow their recommendations for recovery.
We know how stressful an accident can be. Let us help you protect your legal rights while you focus on your recovery. Elsner Law Firm, located in Mountlake Terrace, specializes in personal injury claims. Our goal is to help you navigate through this tough time with the assurance that someone’s taking care of you. Reach out to us today to find out more about how we can help you.
