Seaworthy Files

Stories and Lessons from BoatU.S. Marine Insurance Files

TOPIC: TOW VEHICLE PASSENGERS AT THE RAMP

What Can Happen:
A few years ago, a BoatU.S. Member watched a tow vehicle backing a boat trailer into the water at a boat ramp near Newport Beach, California. A trailer boater himself, the Member thought the trailer seemed too far in the water but rationalized this may be a first time launch for a new boat owner. But the trailer kept going and his eyes now focused on the tow vehicle as its exhaust pipe went under the water. Something wasn't right with this picture. He wanted to say something but chose to not get involved.

Then he saw the children in the back seat of the tow vehicle. The truck finally stopped but water was pouring in the windows. Now he did get involved, wading in to help everyone get out before calling 911. It was a bad situation but it could have been even worse. Here's why:

Power windows will eventually short out as the water reaches the top of the passenger and driver's doors. So, if the windows are up, chances are very good they won't go down. It is for this reason, that children shouldn't be in the tow vehicle at all during a launch or retrieval. Open the windows enough in the event you need to escape. That includes opening the sunroof if applicable. Be sure to make these suggestions part of the checklist before launching or retrieving.

If the tow vehicle is filling up with water, this is the time to have all passengers climb out through a window. Depending on the situation, you may even be able to open the door before the water level becomes too high.

If it Happens:
But if the tow vehicle is underwater with the windows up and inoperable, here's what you need to know:

• The doors aren't going to open because of the difference in air pressure inside and air pressure outside. However, once the vehicle has settled on the bottom and the pressure is equalized inside and outside, the door can be opened.
• If you don't have a hammer or a window puncher (a spring loaded device designed for this very purpose) or a LifeHammer (a heavy tool also designed to break a window from the inside), kick the passenger or driver window, preferably at a corner. Don't attempt to kick the windshield. It's designed with multiple layers of glass and doesn't easily break.
• Focus on getting out of the vehicle. Don't worry about wallets, cell phones or anything else. All of that can be replaced.

For more information and a BoatU.S. Marine Insurance quote go to:
www.boatus.com/insurance