The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore (United States) has collapsed after a cargo ship collided with it. At the time of the collision, dozens of vehicles traveling on the structure fell into the sea due to the accident.
These accidents, as well as a cold drop that drags you into a torrent or falling into a river or swamp, are accidents that inherently carry the risk of drowning and are, therefore, a life or death situation for the driver and the occupants of the vehicle.
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) warns that there are factors, beyond meteorological factors, that favor the danger of drowning, such as the weight and height of the vehicle’s underbody. The speed of the water flow, the depth of the channel or the inclination of the terrain will also determine the severity of the matter.
A car with water at the height of the middle of its wheels will lose grip with the road surface, and if the water exceeds half the height of the vehicle, it will be dragged by the current without control. That is why it is recommended to try to straighten the direction of the vehicle when entering the water is imminent to minimize risks.
It is important to remain calm in a situation of this type since, despite the stress that may arise, thinking and acting clearly will be decisive in keeping yourself safe. A car takes between 30 seconds and 2 minutes to sink, during which time the occupants must apply the POGO rule: Pop seat belt, Open the window and Get Out of the car —unfasten the seat belt, open the window and get out of the car.