Drivers are only just realising car headrests in every vehicle have a hidden function
Car headrests are fitted in every vehicle in the UK but many are unaware the tool can be used as a key road safety escape system.
Motorists are only just realising that car headrests can be used for more than comfort with the tools offering a vital safety purpose, according to experts.
Headrests are fitted in every petrol and diesel vehicle in the UK with many assuming they are simply installed for comfort while behind the wheel.
Many motorists in the UK will likely be aware that headrests also provide a key safety function and help support the neck in the event of a car crash.
This can prevent injury to the base of the neck and ease the effects of whiplash in heavy shunts.
However, specialists at Swansway Motor Group claim there is another reason to use a headrest which “many drivers may not be aware of”.
Although not designed for this reason, the motoring chiefs claim that a headrest could be used as an emergency escape device.
The specialists claim some vehicles have detachable headrests which could be used to help drivers and passengers break windows to escape the vehicle if they cannot get out.
A spokesperson for Swansway Motor Group said: “While it may seem odd that a headrest can be fully removed from a seat, it is important that drivers and their passengers are aware of its potentially lifesaving use.
“Most headrests can easily be detached by pressing the button at the bottom and pulling the headrest out from the seat.
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“We advise that you assess the situation you are in and if you do choose this method to escape your vehicle, you are wary of the dangers of shattered glass."
If road users find themselves trapped inside the car and need to get out, headrests should be detached from their position.
Drivers can then insert the metal rods into the space between the window and the car door.
With enough force, the window glass is likely to shatter providing motorists with a means to escape the vehicle within seconds.
TikTok account @BattlBox previously tried to smash a car window with a headrest and proved that the tip does work.
It took less than five seconds and less than six punches for the spikes on the bottom of the headrest to take out the glass.
