What to do if you’re trapped in a sinking car? These 2-minute golden rules could save your life.

Rescuing Yourself From a Sinking Car: The tragic incident involving young engineer Yuvraj Mehta in Greater Noida has shocked the entire nation. His SUV fell into a deep, water-filled pit in an under-construction area, and despite all efforts, he was unable to save his life. This accident not only raises questions about the system but also highlights the need for serious consideration of how to protect oneself in such a life-threatening situation.

What was the whole matter?

Around 2:30 a.m. on January 17th, Yuvraj Mehta’s Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara lost control in dense fog. The car crossed a broken boundary wall and plunged into a 30–70-foot-deep water-filled ditch. Yuvraj tried his best to escape, climbing onto the roof of the car, using his phone’s flashlight to signal, and even calling his father. However, due to the fog, darkness, and the depth of the water, help could not arrive in time. He died of suffocation and heart failure.

The ‘Golden Rules’ for Getting Out of a Sinking Car

According to experts, you only have 1–2 minutes after your car falls into water. In such a situation, take these steps immediately:

• Stay calm and unbuckle your seatbelt: Panicking wastes time. Unbuckle your seatbelt first.
• Open a window, not a door: The water pressure won’t open the door. Open a window or sunroof before the electronics fail.
• Break the glass: If the window won’t open, break the side glass with an emergency tool or the sharp edge of the seat headrest (don’t break the windshield, it’s too strong).

What to do if there are children along with you?

• Free yourself: First, unbuckle your seatbelt.
• From oldest to youngest: Unbuckle the older child’s belt first, then the younger one.
• Get the children out first: Push the children out the window, then get out yourself.

Can’t swim? Save yourself like this

• Keep your body loose: Do not move your hands and legs nervously as soon as you go out.
• Adopt the floating technique: Tilt your head back, stretch your arms and legs, and breathe slowly. Your body will naturally float on the water.

Preparation and caution are the best defense

• Emergency tools: Always keep a “life hammer” and cutter in your car.
• Waterproof Case: Get a waterproof case for your phone.
• Caution in construction areas: Avoid under-construction roads at night or in fog.

A little preparation and the right information can save your life.