A car crashing into water is one of the most terrifying experiences a driver can face. In those critical moments, knowing exactly what to do can mean the difference between life and death. Stay calm, act fast, and follow these steps to increase your chances of survival.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to stay as calm as possible. Panicking can waste precious seconds and cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath, assess your surroundings, and get ready to act quickly.
Don’t Waste Time Trying to Call for Help
Although it might be instinctive to reach for your phone and call emergency services, there’s simply no time. It can take just one to three minutes for a car to sink completely. Your focus should be on getting out immediately.
Unbuckle Your Seatbelt Immediately
Your seatbelt might feel like an obstacle, but it’s actually your first step toward escaping. Unbuckle it as quickly as possible. If you have passengers, instruct them to do the same. If you have small children in the car, unbuckle yourself first, then assist them.
Open or Break a Window
Once your seatbelt is off, your priority is to get out through a window. Try to roll down the window immediately—this is the easiest way to escape. If the water has already caused the electrical system to fail, you’ll need to break the window using a window-breaking tool, a sharp object, or even your feet. Aim for the corner of the window, not the center, as it’s easier to shatter.
Avoid Opening the Car Door
Many people think they should open the door to escape, but that’s a mistake. Water pressure against the door makes it nearly impossible to open until the car is fully submerged. By then, it may be too late. Windows are your best exit route.
Exit Quickly and Swim to Safety
Once you’re out of the car, push away and swim to the surface. If you’re in deep water, follow the direction of air bubbles to find your way up. If you have passengers who are struggling, help them reach the surface as well.
What to Do After Escaping
Once you’re safely out of the water, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask injuries. Contact emergency services and let them know what happened.
Preventative Measures: How to Be Prepared
While no one expects to crash into water, being prepared can save lives. Keep an emergency tool in your car, such as a window-breaking hammer and seatbelt cutter. Familiarize yourself with the best escape routes in your vehicle. Awareness and preparation are your best defenses.
How Can Lemon Fixers Help Me?
If your car has persistent mechanical issues that make it unsafe, you may have a Lemon on your hands. Lemon Fixers can help you determine if your vehicle qualifies for a buyback or compensation under Lemon Law. Don’t let a faulty car put you in a dangerous situation—contact us today to see how we can help!
