NCJ Number
150227
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video portrays the methodology and presents the findings of Operation S.T.A.R. (Submerged Transportation Accident Research), which examined what happened to various types of vehicles after entering water at moderate speeds and becoming submerged.
Abstract
Specific goals of the research were to identify flotation characteristics of various vehicles, possible escape techniques, and characteristics of the submerged vehicles. The 25 vehicles used represented the various types of vehicles on the road today. The video of the actual research in progress addresses planning, rigging, vehicle preparation, staging, bridge operation, driver preparation, communication, safety procedures, launching vehicles, speed and timing, documentation, recovering vehicles, crane operation, welding, and towing. The research was conducted in 30 feet of water that was either still or with a mild current. Some findings from the research are that flotation characteristics varied among vehicles, depending on the condition of the windows and the integrity of weather seals, and the sinking dynamics were similar for all vehicles. The average flotation time before becoming submerged was 2 to 4 minutes. All vehicles pitched forward, and after a flotation period, descended to the bottom in a vertical position, rolling over on their tops at the bottom. No pocket of air remained in the vehicles after descending to the bottom. Successful exit from the vehicles occurred during the flotation period by releasing seat belts, opening the window, and exiting through the window. Because of different pressures between the inside and outside of the vehicle in water, the doors could not be opened.