Vehicle escape tools, often featuring a center punch, are designed to help you quickly break a car window in an emergency. However, recent research by AAA reveals that these tools might not be as effective as you think. This article explores the effectiveness of center punch tools for breaking car windows, the differences between tempered and laminated glass, and what you should know to stay safe.
Tempered vs. Laminated Glass: Why It Matters
AAA’s research found that most vehicle escape tools can break tempered glass, the type typically found in side and rear windows. However, none were able to break laminated glass, commonly used in windshields. Laminated glass consists of two layers of glass bonded with a layer of plastic, making it incredibly strong and resistant to shattering. This construction helps prevent ejection in accidents.
The Effectiveness of Center Punch Tools
A center punch tool concentrates force on a small area, allowing you to break tempered glass with a sharp, focused impact. In AAA’s demonstration, a center punch tool shattered tempered glass instantly, while a cell phone and headrest spikes failed. However, even the most effective center punch tools were useless against laminated glass. This poses a significant problem as more car manufacturers are using laminated glass for side windows due to stricter safety regulations. AAA estimates that one-third of 2018 car models have laminated glass on side windows.
Identifying Your Car’s Glass Type
Knowing whether your car has tempered or laminated glass is crucial in an emergency. Look for stickers in the corners of your windows that indicate “tempered” or “laminated.” If there are no stickers, contact your vehicle’s manufacturer for information. Identifying your car’s glass type in advance will help you determine the best course of action in a crisis.
Escape Strategies for Different Glass Types
If your car has tempered glass windows, a center punch tool can be a lifesaver. Keep it in an easily accessible location, like on your keychain or attached to your sun visor. However, if your car has laminated glass windows, a center punch tool will be ineffective. In this case, knowing which window (if any) is tempered is crucial. Manufacturers usually leave at least one window tempered for emergency egress.
Importance of a Car Escape Tool
While a center punch tool might not break all car windows, it’s still a valuable tool to have in emergencies. In situations where seconds count, like a submerged vehicle, a center punch tool can quickly shatter tempered glass, providing a vital escape route. Remember, even with laminated glass, knowing which window is tempered can save your life.
Staying Safe in a Vehicle Emergency
In a car emergency, prioritize remaining calm and thinking clearly. If your car is submerged, remember that water pressure can make it difficult to open doors. Your best bet is to break a window. If you have a center punch tool, use it on a tempered glass window. If all your windows are laminated, try to identify the tempered window designated by the manufacturer. If escape is impossible, call emergency services and provide your location.
Conclusion
A center punch tool can be a valuable asset in a car emergency, particularly for breaking tempered glass windows. However, with the increasing use of laminated glass in modern vehicles, it’s essential to understand the limitations of these tools. Identifying your car’s glass type and having an escape plan are crucial for ensuring your safety.
