How to escape a sinking car (idea)

A few years ago I had, on several occasions, a reoccurring nightmare of driving a car off a bank into a river, or the sea. I couldn’t escape from the car, and always woke up when the water started rushing in, and I couldn't breathe.

These dreams led me to do a little research into how to escape if this should happen. This both helped my dreams, and eased my mind for if such a thing happens in future. The following is a simple list of what you should do in the event of driving into deep water:

• First thing you should do is take off your seatbelt. There is not much else you can do with this on if your car is sinking.
• Check that any other passengers in the car are OK. Make sure they are conscious, and aware of what is going on. Get them to take off their seatbelts and do exactly as you say.
• If you are the driver, try to get out from under the steering wheel if possible. Take off any heavy clothing if you think you have time. This is a low priority though.
• Wind down as may windows as possible. The doors will not open as the pressure of the water outside the car will not allow this. Opening the windows will fill the car with water and equalise the water pressure allowing you to swim free.
• If your windows are electric, chances are they won’t open as the electrics are shorted out by the water. You will need to smash a window. To do this, use your elbow or feet on one of the side windows. You will have a lot less chance of getting the windscreen out.
• As the car fills with water you will have to remain calm. This will be the scariest part. Keep your wits about you and the others in the car.
• Once the car is full (remember to take a breath just before it is full) you will be able to open the door, or swim out the window.