In an earlier phase of research into accidents in which cars end up in water, it appeared that the number and severity of this accident type were sufficiently large (See ITRD E206739). In this follow-up study, an attempt is made to gain insight into the escape and rescue problems of a specifically vehicle-technic nature after immersion events. This aim was formulated because, from reported accidents, it can be deduced that electronic provisions, such as central door locking devices and anti-hijack locks on doors, possibly play a role in the drowning of occupants. At the same time, foreign literature and foreign accident data (especially of other European countries) were used to determine the extent and nature of the problem. From this literature study and the search for these data, it was established that the problem of motor vehicle immersions, in eight other European countries, was of only a limited size. The international literature only contained sporadic, relevant research results. To study the problems of escape and rescue from cars after immersion, a file study was carried out. This used summonses of registered accidents for 2000: 137 files made up by the police were each examined individually. Against all expectations, the file study showed that in not one single file was mention made of a specific vehicle feature as the cause of escape or rescue problems. This, however, does not mean that the problem does not exist. This is all the more so because, for a number of the relevant vehicle features (such as the electronic anti-hijack locks), not many had then been installed. As a result of the file study, it was emphatically determined that accidents involving car immersions are complicated. The serious nature of accidents involving car immersions leads to recommend taking primarily preventative regarding infrastructure and vehicle safety. For part I see C 25602 (ITRD E206739).
Abstract