Driving can be a particularly dangerous task as people have to rely on others to also use safety practices. Moreover, people rely on their own cars to help facilitate a safe ride to their destination. As a result, many car manufacturers include features like the one that dings incessantly until everyone has on their seatbelts. However, vehicles also feature a possibly lifesaving, hidden switch of which few people are aware.

“Life Saving” Hidden Switch

TikTok has become a popular place for people to create and share videos of various scenarios. Some are lighthearted and fun, while others offer invaluable insight. TikTok user, @huyameishuoche, uses her platform to share with others, interesting or “hidden” features in vehicles. In particular, one video shows a series of neat hacks to help facilitate a more comfortable or safe ride. Some of her hints are fairly well-known amongst the general population. However, one regarding a hidden switch has astounded internet users.

Because technology has come so far, it’s much easier to get in touch with someone to ask for help. Thereby, it’s much less common to need help because there are so many tools and resources available to us. However, there are times, like when a vehicle becomes fully submerged in water, that it becomes seemingly impossible to escape. That’s where the hidden switch comes in.

Finding and Maneuvering the Hidden Switch

@huyameishuoche explains how to find the lifesaving hidden switch in step-by-step instructions. First, it’s important to know where to find the hidden switch. It’s located in the trunk of the vehicle on the door of the trunk. Next, comes understanding how to get to the trunk from inside the vehicle. Many people know that the backseats can fold down, giving you access to the trunk. Likely, they’ll also know how to do so. Fortunately, if not, the video shows each step with a verbal explanation of what to do.

Once the trunk is open, someone will need to climb into the trunk and find the hidden switch. Lastly, “just one click” will allow you safely exit the vehicle from inside.

There are numerous safety and convenience features that cars of today have including impressive operating systems to help alert you of any problems with the engine. Or when you’re low on gas. Yet, even with how impressive cars are, there are still some circumstances in which they’re no match. Particularly, against the elements. Mud, ice, and water are a few natural elements that can cultivate a safety hazard for vehicles and the people inside. Alternatively, preparedness is a great way to make the experience significantly easier to face, if not to have the potential to save you and your family’s lives.

Using the Head Rest

A few years ago, a rumor circulated the internet explaining that head rests can be used to break a window in case of becoming stuck inside a vehicle. Alternatively, according to ‘Learn Glass Blowing’, it’s not the most ideal way to break a window in case of emergency. “Just as a sculptor doesn’t wield a paintbrush to chisel away at marble, headrests aren’t meant to be wielded as glass-breaking instruments.”

However, the head rests do help create a safer ride, when used appropriately. Heads should rest comfortably against the head rest. Rather than under or above it. This can help minimize the effects of whiplash in a car accident. Fortunately, while the headrest may not be effective, the hidden switch found in the trunk of vehicles will more than likely be the solution to the problem.

Preparedness Increases Safety

In the event that this mechanism fails, there are other options to create a safety net in case of an emergency. The most important thing is to know what kind of situations one might encounter when traveling from Point A to Point B. For example, having snow chains is a great way to be prepared if you live somewhere or are traveling to a destination that frequently gets snow.

Another example is the need for window breaking tools. Which will likely rank higher on the list of priority for those who live near large bodies of water, because of the increased the risk that their car becomes submerged. In cases where water is nearby, it may also be a good idea to keep a Ziploc bag with a change of clothes in the trunk. If the car becomes submerged, and the hidden switch works, it might be nice to immediately change into dry clothes. Doing so after getting out of the water, might help to minimize potential health risks like bacterial infections or hypothermia.

However, some tools are universally handy like those that can inflate tires, jump a car battery, or do both, a seat belt cutter, a first aid kid, and snacks. (Because you never know how long you be stuck). Either way, preparedness is the best way to ensure your safety as well as the safety of others, in case things go unexpectedly. Additionally, getting well acquainted with the vehicle, including knowing in advance where the hidden switch is, and how it works, can help save a life in the event of an emergency.

Sources

“Can Car Headrests Break Glass? Debunking the Myth and Exploring Vehicle Safety Features.” LGB. Jamie. August 22, 2023.
“Little-known hidden switch inside car that could save your life one day.” Unilad. Jess Battison. February 6, 2024.