How to Self-Rescue When a Motor Vehicle Accidentally Submerges and the Doors Cannot Be Opened?
2 Answers
When a motor vehicle accidentally submerges and the doors cannot be opened, the first priority is to remain calm. The fastest self-rescue method is to break the side window glass, so it is essential to have a safety hammer in the vehicle. In the moment the vehicle accidentally submerges, the safety hammer can effectively shatter the window, allowing escape in the shortest possible time. If the vehicle accidentally submerges, due to water pressure, the doors will inevitably be impossible to open. The first step is to stay calm and avoid panic. Do not hastily unfasten the seatbelt. Utilize the precious time before the cabin is completely submerged to quickly determine the direction of the water surface. Generally, the direction with brightness is the water surface. Quickly roll down the window to allow water to enter the cabin. Once the cabin is half-filled with water and the internal and external water pressure equalizes, promptly unfasten the seatbelt and open the door to escape. When the driver urgently breaks the window to escape, the side window should be the first choice for breaking. The front windshield is thicker and often made of laminated glass, making it difficult to break. Even if shattered, it does not easily break away in large pieces to quickly form an escape exit. In contrast, the side window glass is thinner than the front windshield and easier to break. Additionally, when breaking the window, aim for the edges or corners of the glass for a more effective strike.
If the car accidentally falls into water and the doors won't open, I can tell you that mental preparation is key. The first thing to do after submersion is not to panic—take deep breaths to calm yourself. Due to water pressure, the doors will be tightly sealed, and forcing them open won't help. The critical moment comes when the car is nearly filled with water—when the internal and external pressures are roughly balanced—that's when you should try opening the door or window. I always keep a window-breaking hammer in my car, placed within easy reach on the driver's side door; use the pointed end to quickly shatter the window and climb out. If no tools are available, immediately remove the metal ends of the seat headrests to smash the window. After escaping, surface as quickly as possible to call for help, and don't forget to unbuckle your seatbelt to save time. I recommend taking basic water survival courses and keeping an emergency kit in the car—simple preparations can prevent major disasters.
