What to Do When Your Car Is Submerged in Water?

[VanPaislee]

When a car is submerged in water, turn off the engine and do not restart it, then call for rescue. Try to use a wrench to loosen the screw securing the battery cable and remove the negative terminal of the battery. This requires the owner not to rashly open the door to get out, as it may cause the computer board to short-circuit due to water ingress.

[WyattFitz]

If I see my car flooded, I'll first ensure my own safety and avoid panicking to open the door. If the water level is still rising, quickly unbuckle the seatbelt, roll down the window, or use an emergency hammer to break the window and escape to higher ground to await rescue. Never attempt to start the engine, as water ingestion can destroy it and cause electrical short circuits. After escaping, contact a towing company to have the car transported to a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection, as water-damaged wiring and oil systems may be compromised. Also, remember to file a claim with the insurance company, keeping photos of the scene as evidence for them to assess whether the car should be totaled or repaired. For prevention, avoid low-lying areas when driving in the rain and keep a window-breaking tool in the car. A flooded car is no small matter—safety should always come first.