Car insurance companies estimate that around 77% of drivers have crashed their cars. While most of these aren’t fatal instances, it can still be a scary experience for everyone involved. While you can’t predict when an accident will happen, the best thing you can do is be prepared. Keep some essential items in your car so that you can keep yourself safe until help arrives.
Tools
If you’re handy with tools, keep a set of these in your roadside emergency kit. This should include:
- Pliers
- a multi-head screwdriver
- Wrench
- Tire jack
- Tow chains
Spare Tire
While it may seem like a no-brainer, many new cars don’t even come equipped with spare tires anymore. If your tire blows out and cannot be repaired, an extra tire will save you from waiting on a tow.
Tire Pump
If your tire is flat or you notice it’s running a little low, using a tire pump can keep it from blowing out completely. There are many portable tire pumps that can be used even if your car isn’t running.
Window Breaker
In some accidents, you may find yourself trapped in your car and unable to open the doors. When this happens, it pays to have a window hammer. Some car hammers also come equipped with a seatbelt cutter.
Jumper Cables
In the event that your car battery dies, a simple jump is all you need to get home safely. If you can find another driver to help you, you can get a boost of power from their car’s working battery. You can also keep a portable jump starter in your vehicle, although these are a little more expensive.
First Aid Kit
In addition to taking care of your car after an incident, you’ll need to attend to any passengers. A simple first aid kit should have:
- bandages
- dressings
- aspirin
- gauze
- tweezers
- a tourniquet
You may also want to include any essential medications that you or a family member need.
Food and Water
Sometimes it can take a while for assistance to reach you, especially if you have an accident in severe weather. Always keep a spare water bottle or two inside your car. Dehydration can make you tired or cause headaches – which you definitely don’t need on top of an accident!
In addition to water, it’s good to have snacks to boost your energy. Nuts, protein bars, and whole-grain crackers are your best bet. Avoid sugary options like chocolate and gummy snacks, which won’t sustain you for long. You may also want to avoid snacks that are too salty and will make you drink more water.
In addition to water, it’s good to have snacks to boost your energy. Nuts, protein bars, and whole-grain crackers are your best bet. Avoid sugary options like chocolate and gummy snacks, which won’t sustain you for long. You may also want to avoid snacks that are too salty and will make you drink more water.
Blankets
If you break down in the snow, your car will be your only shelter against the elements. When you can’t run the heater all night, you’ll need to have enough blankets to keep yourself warm. A spare hat, gloves, and scarf are also essential to keep in your car during winter.
Flashlight
Car accidents occur frequently at night due to drunk or fatigued drivers. Experiencing a crash at night can also be more disorienting, which is why you should keep a flashlight in your car. Many smartphones also come equipped with a built-in flashlight.
Spare batteries and chargerst
Safety equipment like flashlights will be useless if they’re out of power! For this reason, it’s good to keep spare batteries in the car. Your phone should also be charged so that you can call for help quickly. If your car doesn’t have a USB port, consider carrying a power bank in case of emergencies.
Even the most careful driver may experience a car accident at some point in their life. For more tips on how to keep yourself safe while driving, contact us or visit our blog today.