Yes, a car's headrest can be used to break a side window in an emergency, but it is far more difficult and unreliable than often depicted in movies. The two metal posts on the headrest are the key. You must remove the headrest, insert the tips of the posts directly against the corner of the side window glass (where it's weakest), and apply a sharp, forceful thrust. The glass is tempered, designed to shatter into small, less hazardous pieces upon a concentrated impact.
However, this method is not guaranteed. Success depends on your strength, the angle of attack, and the specific vehicle. In a high-stress situation like a submerged car, it becomes even more challenging. For guaranteed escape, a dedicated window breaker and seatbelt cutter tool is the most reliable solution. These inexpensive tools are designed to shatter safety glass with minimal force and should be kept within the driver's immediate reach.
| Emergency Tool Comparison | Effectiveness | Ease of Use | Reliability | Cost |
|---|
| Dedicated Spring-Loaded Punch | Very High | Very High | Very High | $10 - $25 |
| Tungsten-Tipped Escape Tool | High | High | High | $15 - $30 |
| Headrest Metal Posts | Low to Medium | Low | Low | N/A (Already in car) |
| Elbow or Foot | Very Low | Medium | Very Low | N/A |
The headrest method should only be considered a last resort if no proper tools are available. Your primary focus should be on escaping quickly. If water is entering, wait for the pressure to equalize before opening the door, as the water pressure against the door will make it impossible to open until the cabin is nearly full.
