Recent reports and investigations are raising concerns about the reliability of electronic door handles in modern vehicles, particularly in emergency situations. Several high-profile incidents, some with tragic outcomes, highlight the potential dangers of being trapped in a vehicle after a crash or malfunction. This has led to a growing need for reliable car escape tools, and consumer reports are becoming increasingly vital in helping drivers choose the best options for their safety.
One chilling incident in Toronto in October 2024, investigated by Canadian authorities, involved a Tesla crash where witnesses were reportedly unable to open the doors from the outside. Tragically, four lives were lost inside the vehicle, underscoring the critical importance of rapid extrication in emergencies. Fortunately, a bystander managed to break a rear window, saving one person. This event mirrors the fears highlighted in a 2019 lawsuit connected to the death of Omar Awan. The lawsuit alleged that Tesla Model S door handles contributed to his death in a post-crash fire, stating that the vehicle remained locked and inaccessible, preventing rescuers from reaching him. While this case was dismissed, the underlying concerns about door handle reliability remain.
Further adding to these worries, a 2022 incident in British Columbia saw a Tesla Model Y owner trapped in a burning car. The electrically operated doors reportedly failed to open, forcing the driver to kick out a window to escape. Panic in such situations can make it difficult to locate and operate emergency releases, emphasizing the need for simpler, more intuitive escape solutions. Even recalls are reflecting these issues. Volkswagen had to recall ID.4 EVs between September 2024 and January 2025 due to doors potentially opening unexpectedly if the electronic handles got wet, demonstrating the vulnerability of these systems to environmental factors.
These aren’t isolated incidents. A Rivian R1S owner in Florida reported being trapped for 45 minutes due to an electrical short, while Tesla drivers in Arizona and Chicago have needed roadside assistance to locate emergency door releases. Going back further, a 2018 case involved a 75-year-old Cadillac XLR owner trapped for 14 hours after a battery died, unable to find the manual release.
Consumer Reports themselves have experienced issues with electronic door handles during vehicle testing. They have reported being stuck inside cars, locked out, and struggling with frozen handles. They’ve also had to instruct others on how to simply open a car door – a function that should be inherently straightforward and reliable, especially in emergencies.
This pattern of incidents reinforces the critical need for drivers to be prepared for potential vehicle entrapment. Investing in a high-quality car escape tool is becoming less of an optional accessory and more of a necessary safety precaution. Consumer Reports’ evaluations and user reviews can be invaluable resources when choosing the “best car escape tool” for your needs. These tools, often combining window breakers and seatbelt cutters, offer a mechanical backup when electronic systems fail. As vehicles become increasingly reliant on complex technology, having a simple, reliable escape tool can be the difference between safety and tragedy. Prioritizing a “best car escape tool” based on consumer reports and expert reviews is a proactive step every driver should consider to enhance their safety on the road.
