Navigating the roads comes with inherent risks, and being prepared for emergencies is paramount. While no one anticipates being trapped in a vehicle after an accident, knowing how to react and having the right tools can be life-saving. Recent research has shed light on the effectiveness of vehicle escape tools, and the findings are crucial for every driver. It turns out that not all car windows are created equal, and consequently, not all escape tools work in every situation.
AAA’s groundbreaking study brought to light a critical distinction: the type of glass used in car side windows. Many modern vehicles, approximately one in three 2018 models, are equipped with laminated side windows. This advanced safety feature is designed to prevent occupants from being ejected during a collision, offering enhanced protection. However, this safety advancement presents a challenge when emergency escape is necessary. The study revealed that while most vehicle escape tools can effectively break tempered side windows, they are completely ineffective against laminated glass.
To equip drivers with essential knowledge, AAA conducted thorough testing on a range of readily available vehicle escape tools. The selection included both spring-loaded and hammer-style tools, representing the common types found on the market. The results underscored a significant limitation: none of the tested tools could penetrate laminated glass. Even after repeated attempts, laminated windows remained intact, merely cracking under the force. In contrast, four out of the six tools successfully shattered tempered glass, with spring-loaded tools demonstrating slightly better performance compared to hammer-style tools in breaking tempered windows.
Alt text: AAA testing vehicle escape tools, showing various hammer and spring-loaded tools laid out for examination.
Greg Brannon, director of Automotive Engineering for AAA, emphasized the growing prevalence of laminated side windows in newer vehicles. “To enhance safety, more vehicles are incorporating laminated side windows. However, it’s important to note that the majority still include at least one window made of tempered glass,” Brannon stated. He further cautioned, “Our research indicates that vehicle escape tools can be valuable in emergencies, but only if drivers are aware of their vehicle’s side window type. Otherwise, precious time could be wasted attempting to break glass that is designed not to shatter.”
A crucial takeaway from the research is the necessity for drivers to identify the type of glass installed in their vehicles. This information is readily accessible by checking for a label typically located in the bottom corner of each side window. The label will explicitly state whether the glass is “tempered” or “laminated.” If the label is absent or unclear, contacting the vehicle manufacturer directly is recommended for definitive clarification. It’s also worth noting that some vehicles utilize a combination of glass types, with laminated glass potentially installed in the front side windows and tempered glass in the rear.
The increasing adoption of laminated glass is a direct response to federal safety regulations aimed at minimizing occupant ejections during high-speed collisions. Statistics from 2017 reveal the severity of this issue, with approximately 21,400 individuals partially or fully ejected during crashes, resulting in 11,200 injuries and a tragic 5,053 fatalities. While ejection-related incidents are more common, scenarios such as vehicle fires or submersion in water necessitate side window exits. In these critical situations, vehicle escape tools become invaluable aids, bridging the gap until emergency responders arrive.
Alt text: AAA infographic advising drivers to check their vehicle’s side window glass type, highlighting tempered and laminated glass labels.
Vehicle escape tools are available in a wide array of designs and features. AAA advises drivers to prioritize functionality over superfluous extras like lights or chargers, as these add-ons do not enhance the tool’s core performance – window breaking capability. Furthermore, it’s vital to remember that hammer-style escape tools, including ceramic-tipped ones, are less effective underwater compared to spring-loaded tools. The resistance of water can significantly impede the swing and impact force of a hammer.
“Drivers should select a tool they are comfortable handling and find user-friendly. Crucially, the tool must be stored securely yet within easy reach in case of a collision,” Brannon emphasized. Accessibility in an emergency is just as important as the tool itself.
Preparedness is the cornerstone of safety. Being proactive can drastically improve survival chances if you and your passengers become trapped in a vehicle. AAA strongly recommends the following preparedness measures:
Advance Preparation is Key:
- Know Your Glass: Memorize the type of glass in your vehicle’s windows – tempered or laminated. If your car has tempered windows, identify them as your primary escape points in an emergency. Remember, standard escape tools, including many Ceramic Car Emergency Tools, are ineffective against laminated glass.
- Equip Your Vehicle Wisely: Keep a car emergency tool readily available that you are comfortable using, have tested beforehand, and can easily access after a collision. To ensure your ceramic car emergency tool or other escape tool is functioning correctly, test it on a piece of soft wood. A working tool will leave a noticeable indent.
- Plan Your Escape Route: Develop an exit strategy and communicate it to everyone who regularly travels in your vehicle. This proactive discussion can prevent confusion during a stressful emergency and expedite safe exit. Also, create a backup plan in case your primary escape tool is unusable or ineffective.
Alt text: AAA’s S-U-R-E acronym infographic for vehicle escape: Stay calm, Unbuckle, Roll down or break, Exit quickly, and Call 911.
If Trapped, Remember the S-U-R-E Escape Method:
- Stay Calm: While speed is critical, maintain composure to ensure everyone’s safe exit.
- Unbuckle Seat Belts: Ensure everyone is unbuckled and ready to evacuate when the time comes.
- Roll Down or Break a Window: Attempt to roll down a window first. If submerged, be aware that water will rush in rapidly once the window opens. If the window is jammed and your car has tempered glass, use your ceramic car emergency tool or another escape tool to break a side window. However, remember:
- If the window is laminated and cannot be broken, move to the back of the vehicle or locate an air pocket. Stay with the air pocket until the vehicle completely fills with water. This pressure equalization may allow you to open a door and escape (though this is not guaranteed and highly situational).
- Underwater, hammer-style tools, including ceramic-tipped hammers, can be significantly harder to use due to water resistance. Spring-loaded tools might offer a slight advantage in submerged situations for tempered glass.
- Exit the Vehicle Quickly: Once a window is breached or a door is opened, evacuate swiftly and move everyone to a safe location.
- Call 911: While typically the first step in an emergency, in situations involving fire or submersion, prioritize immediate escape before contacting emergency services. Call for help once safely out of the vehicle.
Methodology
For detailed testing methodology, please refer to the full AAA report.
About AAA
AAA is a not-for-profit organization providing automotive, travel, insurance, and financial services to over 59 million members across North America. Founded in 1902, AAA is committed to advocating for and leading in safe mobility. Drivers can access roadside assistance, find gas prices, discounts, and book travel through the AAA Mobile app. For membership information, visit AAA.com.
