The seemingly innocent TikTok ‘hack’ could turn your metal water bottle into a ‘heavy projectile’ capable of causing a concussion to the driver or passenger in the case of a crash
Motorists have been warned against availing of a “dangerous” TikTok water bottle storage technique that could turn a container into a “heavy projectile”. The seemingly innocent TikTok shows followers how to secure a water bottle to the passenger seat’s headrest via a clip.
Attaching the metal water bottle to the passenger seat means the driver “doesn’t have to listen to it roll around with every move” the car makes, according to the uploader of the video. However, concerned users were quick to point out the dangers of storing a container in this fashion.
The video’s top comment, which has over 800 likes, reads: “Why is nobody talking about how dangerous this is?” Another user looked to dismiss the issue, writing: “It’s not really any more dangerous than leaving it in the seat.”
But they were clapped back by the original commenter, who replied: “higher up is gonna cause much more damage plus a higher change of getting a concussion rather than a bruise etc. from the projecting metal water bottle.”
A third person backed up the concerns, writing: “literally what I came to the comments for. Fender bender then all of a sudden you’re concussed by your water bottle..”
In light of the hack, Alan Thomas, CEO of Ripe Motorhome Insurance explains the risks for those motorists thinking of giving it a go:
“It can be frustrating to not be able to fit your reusable water bottle in a standard cup holder, however tips like this can actually lead to distractions and even potential injury.
“In the event of a collision or emergency stop, a loose object such as a metal water bottle can easily turn into a heavy projectile if it becomes detached. While this is likely to still happen if you store your water bottle elsewhere, keeping it higher up at eye level puts you and your passengers at greater risk of a head injury.”
“The Highway Code recommends that drivers secure items inside the vehicle and to keep it free from anything which could lead to distraction or injury. There are plenty of cup holder expanders on the market to accommodate larger designers or if in doubt place it safely in your bag in the passenger footwell.”
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