Crash-test dummies land in Smithsonian

WASHINGTON, July 14 (UPI) -- Crash-test dummies Vince and Larry, who crashed again and again for auto safety, landed in the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Transportation Department said.

"We learned a lot from Vince and Larry about the importance of buckling up," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Wednesday in a release. "They are a part of American culture and became household names while educating the public on seat belt use. Their message still holds true today."

The Vince and Larry television and radio ads, around since 1985, promoted highway safety for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, using slapstick humor and comedy to remind people about the importance of buckling up.

The spots aired on television and radio and also ran in magazines. The campaign was conducted through 1998.

The objects are part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History in Washington.