Sinking vehicle: life-saving tips

Despite being a cautious driver, you could still get into an accident near a body of water or skid off a slippery road into a nearby lake or river. Would you know how to escape? Here’s what you need to know to survive.

Did you know it takes about three minutes for a vehicle that crashes into the water to sink? It’s crucial to have a solid plan to prevent a tragedy. According to the experts, staying calm and focusing on getting out of your car is the most important thing.

Firstly, quickly unfasten your seatbelt and tell any passengers to do the same. Then, open the window. Don’t waste your time trying to open the door, as the water pressure will be too strong. If your car has electric windows and you’re unsure if they’ll work in water, don’t worry! They should function for a few minutes if your vehicle is in good condition.

If your windows won’t open, move on to plan B. Pull off your headrest and use the metal rods on the bottom to break a side window by banging on the corners. However, avoid trying to get out through the windshield, as the front of the vehicle often reaches the water first, and windshield glass is designed to be more resistant than other auto glass. After getting out of your car, swim to shore immediately.

If you haven’t gotten out of your car before it’s completely submerged, take a deep breath and open the door (the pressure will have equalized by now). Then, swim to the surface.

One last tip: whether you use the window or the door to evacuate, remember to remove heavy clothes and boots before leaving your vehicle. This will make swimming much easier.

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