Many people remember their early driving days as stressful, especially when every merge, turn, or busy intersection felt intimidating. Even after years of experience, those nerves can return, because traffic can be unpredictable and mistakes happen quickly. That’s why modern vehicles include safety features that sometimes feel annoying, like loud seatbelt reminders.
They aren’t there to bother drivers — they exist because they prevent serious injuries and save lives. Beyond the obvious tools, many cars also include safety features that drivers rarely think about until they truly need them. One important example is the emergency trunk release, usually found inside the trunk lid.
In a rare but dangerous situation where someone becomes trapped, this handle can provide a direct way out. Some safety experts also note that if back seats fold down, they may provide another escape path in emergencies. Another lesser-known trick involves the headrest. While it’s mainly designed to reduce whiplash and support the neck, the metal posts can sometimes help break a side window if an exit is blocked.
This won’t work in every model, but understanding your vehicle’s layout can give you extra options if you ever face a life-threatening scenario. Ultimately, the best protection on the road is preparation. Take time to learn where your car’s safety features are located, review the owner’s manual, and build strong driving habits like staying alert and avoiding distractions. Confidence grows when you know what your vehicle can do — and that knowledge could make a critical difference one day.
