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How to Escape a Sinking Car Accident
Accidents involving vehicles plunging into water are rare but extremely dangerous. Here's what you need to know if you got in one.
Accidents involving vehicles plunging into water are rare but extremely dangerous. Here's what you need to know if you got in one.
Accidents involving vehicles plunging into water are rare but extremely dangerous. In such situations, knowing what to do can make the difference between life and death. While we hope never to face such circumstances, being prepared can help us respond quickly and effectively.
Here’s what you need to know to survive if you ever find yourself in a sinking car.
Why the First 60 Seconds Matter
When a car sinks into water, pressure builds rapidly around the doors, and electronics begin to fail. The power windows usually still work—for a few seconds. After that, your chances of escape drop significantly. That is why immediate action is key.
1. Stay Calm & Unbuckle Your Seatbelts
Unfasten your seatbelt first. Then assist others, especially children or elderly passengers.
2. Open or Break the Window—Not the Door
Use the power window switch immediately. If it does not work, break the side window using a car escape tool. Aim for the corner, not the middle of the car window.
Avoid trying to break the windscreen—it is reinforced.
No tool? Try using a seat headrest, metal water bottle, or hard shoe heel.
3. Escape Through the Window
Exit the sinking car one person at a time, starting with the person closest to the window.
Push upward—toward the water surface.
Never try to open the door while submerged. Water pressure will pin it shut.
4. If the Window Cannot Be Opened or Broken
Wait for the car to fill completely. Once pressure is equal inside and out, try opening the door with force. It may work—but only at this stage. So, try your hardest to escape using Step 1 to 3.
Keep these within arm’s reach (visor, dashboard, or door):
These items are only requiring one hand to operate them and are mountable or easy to store in your seat pocket in the car.
Other than that, avoid storing tools in the glove box as it will be hard to access during panic, and keep a second tool in the centre console or near the front passenger seat.
Train Your Family—It Saves Lives
If you have young kids, teach them these steps to escape a car that goes underwater:
Practise Simple Scenarios:
“Imagine the car is in a river—what do you do?”
Let them handle the tool, even if using a cushion for pretend.
Show them how to break glass using their elbows or feet if there is no tool available around them.
What about if you have infants in car seats?
Cut the seatbelt and pull the whole car seat out before exiting the sinking car together through the window.
What If You Cannot Swim?
At this point, you do not need to swim—you only need to stay afloat and be calm.
1. Not All Windows Are Breakable
Some new cars have laminated side windows, which cannot be broken easily. If your car windows are laminated, invest in a spring-loaded glass breaker or glass cutter.
2. Do Not Count on SOS Apps
Emergency apps will not help you escape, and you may not be able to use your phone if it is submerged under water. Escape first—call for help only once you are safe.
3. Flash Floods Are a Real Risk in Malaysia
Be alert during heavy rain, especially in city underpasses or rural bridges.
4. Cut & Pull the Whole Child Seat
Do not waste time fiddling with harness clips in panic. Cut and lift the whole child seat out and pull it to the surface and to safety.
5. Freezing in Panic Can Be Fatal
Even survivors admit they froze despite knowing the steps. And always remind yourself: Breathe. Focus. Escape.
Extra Prep in Your Car for Peace of Mind
Share this blog with your friends and family so they can benefit them by being prepared for the unexpected, too.
Click here for PIDM’s TIPS Brochure.
