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Four people were sent to the hospital after their car ended up in the Potomac River in Washington, DC, on January 1.
According to news reports, DC Fire and EMS responded to reports of a vehicle in the Potomac near Thompsons Boathouse on Virginia Avenue NW. When they arrived, they found two adults and two children had climbed out of the overturned vehicle that was in the river.
All four accident victims were taken to the hospital in “good condition” for evaluation. Police are investigating the accident.
Knowing how to escape can mean the difference between life and death if your vehicle enters the water. The first crucial moments after your car hits water are your best chance for escape. Immediately unfasten your seatbelt and unlock all doors – this must happen before the electrical system fails. Power windows may still work briefly, so open them immediately. If they’re already disabled, you’ll need a special glass-breaking tool or use the steel part of your headrest to break a side window.
Don’t try to open the doors until the car is almost full of water. Due to water pressure, the doors won’t open while there’s still air inside. Instead, take slow, steady breaths to stay calm and wait until the water has filled about 90% of the passenger compartment. Once the pressure has equalized, you can open a door and swim to safety. If you have children in the car, unfasten their seatbelts immediately after yours and help them exit through the windows. The oldest child should exit first to help others from outside if needed.
Time is critical – you typically have between 30 seconds to two minutes before the car completely submerges. Don’t waste precious moments trying to call for help or grab belongings. Focus solely on escape. Once you’re out of the vehicle, push off from it to propel yourself toward the surface. The car’s sinking motion can create a vacuum effect, so swimming away quickly is essential. Remember that the direction of air bubbles will always lead you toward the surface if you become disoriented underwater.
Keeping a glass-breaking tool and seatbelt cutter easily accessible in your car can give you vital options in an emergency. These small devices could make a difference in a successful escape.
If you were involved in a car accident, our DC car accident attorneys can help. Contact Regan Zambri Long today to schedule a free consultation.
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This post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. If you or a loved one has been injured, please seek immediate medical care.
