Bridge collapse reminds commuters to consider vehicle escape plans

When a cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland, causing the bridge's catastrophic collapse in the early morning hours of March 26, people who watched and read the news coverage likely asked themselves one question: "What would I do if I were on that bridge?"

Though coverage of the incident shows that a "mayday" message issued with just enough time to halt traffic saved the lives of many potential commuters, the question still remains.

Connecting the state with surrounding areas like Delaware, Pennsylvania and even its shore locations, South Jersey has a number of bridges that span across open water, which means it can't hurt to have an escape plan.

How to get out of a submerged car

To safely exit from a trapped vehicle, the American Automobile Association recommends a simple term: SURE

• Stay calm — work quickly in a calm matter to ensure everyone in the vehicle exits
• Unbuckle — be sure everyone in the car is unbuckled and prepared to leave the vehicle
• Roll or break window — if the car is sinking, water will enter the car through whichever window is opened at a faster rate. If a window or door won't open, try breaking a side window with an escape tool.
• Exit — call 911 once having exited the vehicle

Drivers should also remember that if their vehicle is submerged and a window won't open, they should stay with the air pocket (typically in the back of the vehicle) until all of the air has left the vehicle. The pressure should then equalize, allowing doors to open.

An escape tool should be kept in your vehicle for emergencies, and a spring-loaded tool may be easier to use under water.

Remember: windshields may be more likely to be made with laminated glass, which AAA's study found more difficult to break, even with a tool.

Kaitlyn McCormick writes about trending issues and community news across South Jersey for the Courier-Post, The Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times. If you have a story she should tell, email her at kmccormick@gannett.com. And subscribe to stay up to date on the news you need.