Crash test dummy. Computer artwork of a crash test dummy (centre right) and its skeleton (centre). An image of a car is also seen. A crash test dummy is used to test vehicle safety. It contains sensors that provide information about the forces acting on humans in a car crash. The neck can simulate the rotation, flexion and extension of a human neck. The torso contains 6 strong steel ribs that simulate the deflection of forces by the human chest. The bones of the dummy's skeleton can be used to predict bone fractures and ligament injuries.