Diversity of crash test dummies? Safety and security in automobiles

Crash-test dummies have not been mirroring the bodies of women and men of all sizes and shapes. We know from research that women – although less frequently involved in accidents – are more severely injured and more often die if they are. Would diversifying crash-test dummies help make more people more safe and secure? Are there other aspects that will ensure better safety and security protection in automobiles for all human beings?   In the first episode of our podcast series Inclusive Research and Innovation (IRI) in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Dr. Claudia Werker from Delft University of Technology interviews three experts from Graz University of Technology about these questions. Dr. Cornelia Lex, Dr. Mario Hirz and Dr. Corina Klug share insights about safety and security in cars. For instance, safety depends on both characteristics of the drivers and passengers such as age and gender, and on other aspects like behaviour. Safety and security in cars also start much earlier than preventing injuries in accidents, particularly with ergonomics and the interior design of cars. Moreover, autonomous cars provide these researchers with additional challenges regarding safety and security.   Learn more about consumer safety information for cars mentioned by Dr. Corina Klug (30:22) - https://www.euroncap.com/en