Carrying a water bottle in the car: a safety risk?

It may seem like something harmless and risk-free, but the truth is that a water bottle in the car can pose a certain risk. The first thing to remember is that there is always a risk if there is any item in the car that is poorly positioned and without the necessary restraint. So let’s review some tips for properly carrying that water bottle, which is so necessary in summer, in the car.

Water bottles can be a great ally during these months of intense heat, but there are some things to keep in mind to carry them safely, as our colleagues at OcasiónPlus.com remind us. Furthermore, it will also help us to remember safety tips regarding cargo in the car.

Don’t leave the bottle loose

We must remember the Elephant Effect. That is, when a strong deceleration occurs, any object in the car will be thrown forward due to inertia. That object multiplies its weight by 60, so a one-liter water bottle, which weighs one kilo, will strike any obstacle with a force of about 60 kilos, with the risk that this entails.

If the water bottle is not properly secured and is left, for example, on the front or rear seat, in the event of sudden braking it can be thrown forward and strike the windshield or even an occupant, causing considerable damage.

If the water bottle is left on the floor, it can roll and end up under the pedals, preventing braking or acceleration. This is a significant risk that must be avoided at all costs. The bottle should go in a bag, secured by the seatbelt or another restraint element. The bag can also be placed on the floor at the feet of the rear seats, as long as there is no risk of it rolling and causing an accident.

Don’t drink from bottles that are hot

For several years a WhatsApp chain has been circulating claiming that drinking from a water bottle that has been in the car for some time can be harmful to health. The message speaks of microparticles released by the car’s plastic. That is not true, but it is true that drinking from a water bottle that has been in the sun in the car can be bad. And that is because if the water has come into contact with germs, the heat causes them to multiply quickly and cause some health problem.

It is better to discard that hot water bottle and, if possible, buy a fresh one. Isn’t that much more pleasant?

Penalty for drinking while driving

If you need to drink water, you must stop. Drinking water while driving can create a risk, as it diverts attention from the road. If a Guardia Civil officer sees this and considers that a risky situation is being created on the road, the fine can be 200 euros. If you are thirsty, it is better to stop wherever it can be done safely and hydrate without endangering anyone.

Other uses of the water bottle

Carrying a water bottle is always a good idea. Not only does it serve for necessary hydration, but it can also prevent some scares. It can be used to clean the windshield if the windshield washer fluid has run out, as well as to top up the engine coolant reservoir in case of need. Of course, in that case it is always better to have distilled water, but for an emergency, tap water can be a good solution.