How do car power windows improve occupant safety?
Power windows cause approximately 2,000 emergency room visits each year. When the power window closes, it is strong enough to bruise or break bones, crush fingers, or restrict airways. Although power windows use a lot of force, they are still considered safer than manual car windows.
Power windows can be operated by the driver. No matter how many times you tell a naughty child not to touch the power window switch, they may still keep pressing the button to open the window. The driver has a basic set of window controls to close any window that is open in the vehicle. This simple device saves lives and prevents injuries that could result if a child tries to climb out a window. A manual window cannot be controlled by the driver in the same way.
Has a window lock button. If you have a small child or dog that tends to accidentally press the power window switch, or if you want to make sure the power window won't cause accident or injury, you can turn on the power window lock. It is usually mounted on the driver's side power window controls or on the dash, and when enabled, the rear windows are not opened by the rear switches. The driver is still able to open and close the rear power windows using the main control, and the front passenger is still able to operate their window normally.
Has an anti-seize device. The power window motor exerts a tremendous amount of force when the power window closes. In windows that use the express lift function, the power window motor is equipped with an anti-pinch function, so the window rolls over if it hits an obstacle such as a child's limb. Although it can still pinch, it will change direction before serious injury occurs.
