Issue date: 2/4/10 Section: Features

Media Credit: Photo Illustration by Rachel Stone

While it may not seem a likely possibility, there may be a day you find yourself in the trunk of a car. And, clearly, unless you locked yourself inside at your own free will, there's a good chance that you won't like being in there.
So, just in case a friend plays a dirty trick on you or some weirdo steals you from the world, here's how to skillfully MacGyver your way out of such a danger zone.

1. Analyze your surroundings. Check to see if there is a wall separating the backseats from the trunk. If there is a wall, obviously, you have no matter of luck. If not, do your best to kick the seats down and crawl out into the cabin of the vehicle. If these efforts fall under the category of "epic fail," proceed to the next step.

2. Feel around under the carpet in search of a hidden cable; it's a magical cable that will grant you release from the steel trap of misery. Many new cars come equipped with a cable release latch that runs from the driver's seat to the trunk. Pull on the cable to open the trunk from the inside. However, if the vehicle is moving, it is not advised to attempt to jump, that is, until The Eastern Progress writes a "how to exit a moving vehicle" article.

3. Feel around for tools. At this point, a screwdriver or a pry bar would make you the happiest victim of all car trunk tragedies. If there are any tools to help in your mission, attempt to pry the corner of the trunk lid up.

4 Lastly, at this point, if you want out, you're going to have to be aggressive. B-e aggressive. Yank out the wires leading from the brake lights and then kick out the lights. Then, try and wave or yell to other passersby so that they can help.
In conclusion, there is a word of caution to this tale, be aware that while the risk of hyperventilation and the possibility of passing out are not likely because a trunk is not airtight, panicking increases the risk. So, breathe normally, but work quickly.

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