Harlingen police rescue woman trapped in submerged vehicle

HARLINGEN – Harlingen police saved a woman’s life December 8 after she crashed into a canal and became trapped in her submerged vehicle.

According to a news release, the crash happened about 12:24 a.m. near the intersection of Morris Road and Rangerville Road. Police say they were alerted to the incident by a 911 caller who reported a car was upside down in the water with a woman trapped inside. No information was provided as to how the car ended up in the canal.

According to the news release, “Harlingen Police Officers responded to the location, immediately entered the water, were able to make their way to the vehicle and began working to free the female from the submerged vehicle. Officers were able to open the passenger door while the others held the vehicle up from continuing to sink into the mud in the chest deep water.”

The unidentified woman was taken to a local hospital where she is expected to make a full recovery.

Five tips for escaping a submerged car

Step 1:  Stay calm

According to research, a vehicle will typically float for 30 to 120 seconds before completely sinking. Consequently, your best chance at escape depends on the actions you take within the first two minutes after the car hits the water. If you spend that time panicking, you have lost your best chance to get out safely.

Step 2:  Roll down all windows

This is critical, because as the car sinks, the water pressure might prevent the windows from rolling down, even if you have automatic windows. In fact, automatic windows do not immediately short circuit when underwater, so even if you get a late start, you should still be able to get the windows open before the pressure is too great.

Step 3:  Remove your seatbelt

The last thing you want when inside a sinking car is to be restrained while trying to free yourself from the vehicle. Take off your seatbelt quickly so that you are able to move freely inside the car.

Step 4: Help passengers

Once you are able to move freely, check on your passengers, especially children. Unlatch any car seat restraining an infant, and help older children unbuckle their seatbelts. Tell them to exit the car through the window closest to them, or bring them to the front seat to escape the car with you.

Step 5:  Exit and swim to safety

Exiting an open window is easiest before water starts pouring in through the window. It becomes more difficult once the water starts coming in, but it is still possible to do so.

Once you have climbed out, push off the car and swim to the surface. If you have a small child with you in the front seat, put them through the window first and follow after them to assist them to the surface.

Have you been injured in a Texas car accident?

If you’ve been hurt in a car crash, you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The J. Gonzalez Law Firm is ready to help you get the compensation you need and deserve.

Contact us online via this website, or call directly at 1-800-CAR-CRASH to schedule your free consultation.

Source: https://myrgv.com/local-news/2022/12/08/harlingen-police-rescue-woman-from-submerged-vehicle/