emergency question

watching a rerun episode of myth busters, they were imitating an accident, where the vehicle ended up in water. they could not get the door open because of the water pressure. that is fine, i have known about that for years. but what i am wondering, is why you would not just roll down a window? i do not know if an electric window would still operate. i would think it would, direct wiring would still be the path of least resistance. and if the car had manual windows, that just seems like a no brainer. am i wrong in my way of thinking about this? would the electrical quit working if the vehicle was submerged?

I would agree. Theoretically with no physical damage to hinder the windows operation the power windows should work. Most of the electrical system should be functional for a few minutes at least. The only thing stopping the windows would be panic. I've crashed 'em,rolled 'em,landed upside down in 'em but never submerged a car so I've no first hand experience in that area! Was there anything to the contrary on Myth Busters?

I seem to recall seeing a program that confirmed power windows work for a while when submerged, in fresh water. Salt water may not work so well.

I think opening the door, once the car mostly fills with water is better, unless the door is jammed. The door simply gives you a larger opening to escape.
Of course if the door is stuck or the car is on its side.... the window's the better choice, imo.

It's called panic...been through aviation dunker training..