A water in a car situation is one of the most dangerous emergencies you can face as a driver. Whether your vehicle ends up in a canal, river, or lake, every second counts. Unfortunately, many people react incorrectly due to panic. Knowing exactly what to do in advance can save your life.
In this article, you’ll learn what to do when your car enters the water, what mistakes to avoid, and how to increase your chances of escaping safely.
What to Do in a Water in Car Emergency
When dealing with water in the car, staying calm and acting quickly is crucial. Follow these steps in the correct order:
1. Stay Calm and Act Immediately
Panic can cause you to lose valuable time. Focus on escaping as quickly as possible.
2. Unbuckle Your Seatbelt – or Cut It
Release your seatbelt right away. If it’s stuck, use a seatbelt cutter (often part of a safety hammer).
Support yourself with one hand
Cut the belt in one firm motion
Be prepared for sudden movement once released
3. Open the Windows Immediately
Your best chance of escape in a water in car situation is through the window.
Electric windows usually still work briefly after impact
Try to open them immediately
If that fails, break a side window, not the windshield
Aim for a corner of the window
4. Get Out Through the Window
Do not wait for the car to fill with water.
Help children out first
Exit immediately after
Waiting increases the risk of panic and disorientation
5. Swim to the Surface
Once you are out:
Follow bubbles or light upward
Stay calm and swim steadily
Make sure you are clear of the car before surfacing
Correct Order to Remember
Seatbelt → Window → Exit → Surface
What NOT to Do in a Water in Car Situation
Avoiding mistakes is just as important as knowing the right actions.
Do Not Try to Open the Doors
Water pressure makes it nearly impossible to open a door once submerged.
Do Not Wait for the Car to Fill with Water
In theory, pressure equalizes, but in reality people often panic or lose consciousness before that happens.
Do Not Grab Your Belongings
Items like phones or bags are not worth your life. Focus only on escaping.
Do Not Unbuckle Without a Plan
If the car is still moving or rolling, you risk becoming disoriented. Think about your escape route first.
Do Not Forget Children
Children cannot free themselves. Help them first, while staying calm and efficient.
Do Not Rely on Electronics
Power windows and locks may stop working once water reaches the system. Act immediately.
Do Not Wait for Help
Emergency services may not arrive in time. In a water in car emergency, you must act on your own.
Do Not Underestimate the Situation
A car can fill with water and sink faster than expected. Do not hesitate.
Ready for Your Theory Exam?
Want to be completely confident that you understand situations like this and are fully prepared for your theory exam?
Take a car, scooter, or motorcycle theory course and learn everything step by step, so you can hit the road with confidence. Whether you prefer a fast-track approach or learning from home, there’s an option that fits you.
Register for a one-day theory course or choose an online course and work toward passing your exam quickly and efficiently. Take the first step toward getting your driver’s license today.
Conclusion
A water in car emergency is rare but extremely dangerous. You won’t have time to think, so knowing the correct steps in advance is essential.
Always remember:
Stay calm → Unbuckle → Open window → Get out → Swim up
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