Car headrests have a hidden feature that could be vital, experts say

Drivers across the UK might find themselves surprised to learn that their car's headrest is not solely for comfort, it also serves a crucial safety role. Experts have emphasised that while many acknowledge headrests provide neck support during an accident, thereby mitigating whiplash injuries, there's an additional utility to them that's often overlooked.

According to the specialists at Swansway Motor Group, apart from alleviating neck injuries in the event of a collision, some headrests have a more covert function. They suggest headrests can double as emergency escape tools.

While it's not their primary design purpose, the automotive experts point out that in some cars, detachable headrests can be used to shatter windows for a swift exit when conventional options are unavailable.

A representative from Swansway Motor Group advised: "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."

They further explained: "Most headrests can easily be detached by pressing the button at the bottom and pulling the headrest out from the seat," reports the Express.

The spokesperson also cautioned: "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 motorists find themselves trapped in their vehicle, they can use the headrests to escape. The headrest should be removed and the metal rods inserted into the gap between the window and the car door.

Applying sufficient force will likely shatter the window glass, allowing drivers to exit the vehicle swiftly. A TikTok account, @BattlBox, demonstrated this technique successfully, managing to break the window glass using the spikes on the bottom of a headrest in less than five seconds with fewer than six strikes.