Imagine the terrifying scenario: you’re trapped in your car, upside down, or sinking rapidly in water. Panic can set in quickly. While these extreme accidents are rare, with around 8,000 submersion crashes in 2017, compared to far more frequent rollover accidents, preparedness is key. Having a plan and a reliable Car Exit Tool can be the difference between life and death in such critical situations.
Why a Car Exit Tool is Essential: Breaking Through Tempered Glass
To understand the effectiveness of car exit tools, AAA conducted thorough research on six different models, testing their ability to break both tempered and laminated car windows. The findings were revealing: only four of the tested tools successfully shattered tempered glass, the type commonly found in most car side windows. Crucially, none of the tools could penetrate laminated glass, which merely cracked but remained intact under pressure. Furthermore, the research highlighted that spring-loaded car exit tools were generally more effective at breaking tempered glass compared to hammer-style tools.
The Rise of Laminated Side Windows: Understanding Your Vehicle’s Glass
AAA’s study emphasizes the importance of owning a car exit tool, but equally vital is knowing what type of side window glass your car has: tempered or laminated. Many drivers are unaware that an increasing number of new vehicles – approximately 1 in 3 of 2018 models – are equipped with laminated side windows. This stronger glass is designed to minimize occupant ejection during collisions, enhancing safety in rollovers and crashes.
John Nielsen, Managing Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair at AAA, points out this double-edged sword: “To enhance safety, more vehicles are incorporating laminated side windows. However, the majority still include at least one window made of tempered glass. Our research indicates that car exit tools can be effective in emergencies, but only if drivers are aware of their side window type. Otherwise, precious seconds might be wasted trying to break glass that is designed not to shatter.”
How to Identify Your Car Window Type: A Simple Check
Determining your car’s side window glass type is straightforward. Look for a label located in the bottom corner of the side window. This label should clearly state whether the glass is “tempered” or “laminated.” If the label is missing or unclear, AAA recommends contacting your vehicle manufacturer for definitive information. It’s also important to remember that some vehicles use different glass types in different locations, for instance, tempered glass for rear side windows and laminated glass for front side windows.
Emergency Readiness: Three Steps to Prepare
Being prepared for a car emergency significantly boosts your chances of survival, particularly if you and your passengers become trapped. AAA strongly advises drivers to take these proactive steps:
Pre-Emergency Preparation:
- Know Your Glass Type: Memorize whether your vehicle windows are tempered or laminated. If your car has tempered windows, remember these are your primary escape points in an emergency. Importantly, standard car exit tools will not work on laminated glass.
- Equip Your Car with a Car Exit Tool: Keep a car exit tool in your vehicle that you are comfortable using, have tested beforehand (if possible – test on appropriate material, not your car window!), and can easily access in an emergency. Spring-loaded tools often come with keychain attachments, or you can mount the tool on your dashboard or steering column for secure and accessible placement.
- Develop and Communicate an Exit Strategy: Plan your escape route in advance and discuss it with all passengers. This will minimize confusion during a crisis and expedite evacuation. Also, consider a backup plan if the car exit tool is unusable or ineffective.
The S-U-R-E Method: Your Escape Plan When Trapped
If you find yourself trapped inside a vehicle, remember the S-U-R-E method for a structured escape:
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Stay Calm: While speed is crucial, remain calm and act deliberately to ensure everyone’s safe exit.
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Unbuckle Seat Belts: Immediately unbuckle all seat belts and ensure everyone is ready to evacuate when the moment arises.
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Roll Down or Break a Window: Attempt to roll down a window first. Be aware that if the car is submerged, water will rush in rapidly once a window is opened. If the window is jammed and your car has tempered glass, use your car exit tool to break a side window for escape. If submerged and unable to break a laminated window, move to the back of the vehicle or locate any air pocket. Stay with the air pocket until the vehicle is fully filled with water; this pressure equalization may allow you to open a door and escape. Note that hammer-style car exit tools can be significantly harder to use effectively underwater compared to spring-loaded models.
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Exit the Vehicle: Exit quickly and move everyone to a safe location away from the vehicle.
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Call 911: While normally the first step in any emergency, in situations like vehicle submersion or fire, immediate escape takes precedence. Call emergency services once you are safely out of the vehicle.
Conclusion: Be Informed, Be Prepared, Be Safe
As John Nielsen of AAA wisely stated, “Knowledge is power, and the more drivers understand about their vehicles – like their side window glass type – the better equipped they will be to handle emergencies.” Understanding your car’s window composition and keeping a reliable car exit tool readily available are vital steps towards ensuring your safety and the safety of your passengers in unforeseen vehicle emergencies. Prepare today, and drive with greater peace of mind knowing you’re ready for the unexpected.
