What to Do If Your Car Goes into Water

You have roughly 60 seconds before the cabin fills. The order matters: Seatbelts off, window open, children first, get out. Open or break the window immediately — this is your exit, not the door. Water pressure makes doors virtually unopenable until the car is fully submerged, and by then you may not have air. Electric windows usually work for a short time after submersion, but don't count on it — this is where that visor-mounted window breaker earns its price. Do not waste time calling 911 first; get out, then call. Don't try to save belongings.