How to Escape a Car in Water

Following the tragic bridge collapse in Minneapolis, many are more nervous crossing bridges. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates 600 people die yearly in immersed vehicles. According to the agency, 2,000 nonfatal crashes occurred in 2004 in which vehicles were immersed, and 282 fatal immersions occurred. Here is how to survive a car sinking in water.

It is a myth that one should wait until the car is completely submerged to open the door. Get out as quickly as possible. It takes from 30 seconds to up to 4 minutes for a vehicle to completely submerge.

Think S.O.S. GO:
S = stay calm
O = open window
S = release seatbelt
GO = Get Out

Panic is a natural reaction to an emergency, but it is important to get control of it. Try slowing your breathing as you open your windows and unbuckle your seatbelt.

It may seem counterintuitive to open your car windows when water is rising around you. However, your best chance of escaping your car will be through a window. If your car has electric windows, you will have a few seconds before the electrical system shorts out in water. You must break one out if you are unable to lower the windows. Keep a hammer or a special tool called "window punch" within reach (“velcroed” to the visor or in the center console).
The car will sink engine first. The best chance for an air pocket, therefore, will be in the backseat.

Swim for the surface as soon as you are free of the car. Look for light above or follow air bubbles if you are disoriented. Shed shoes and heavy clothing, if possible. Watch for obstacles in the water. If you are unable to swim to shore, look for something substantial to grab hold of and hang on until rescue arrives.

For more information, go to:
http://www.sos.state.il.us/publications/rules_of_the_road/rr_chap10.html
http://www.lsp.org/submerged.html
http://www.whynot.net/ideas/2491
http://www.wikihow.com/Escape-from-a-Sinking-Car