Although no one can predict when an accident will occur, with the proper equipment and resources you can at least be prepared for when disaster strikes. In any type of emergency situation, having the right tools at your disposal can make the difference between a catastrophe and survival. This is why keeping a properly stocked (and well-maintained) emergency car safety kit is an essential way to protect yourself and your family from the dangerously uncertain effects of a collision.
Accident Tools and Equipment
Hindsight is a wonderful thing. That is unless you and your family are pinned in your car without a way out, and your half-completed car safety kit is back in your garage. However, by reading this Preparation will require doing something, not just reading about the actions you should be taking to stop a potential tragedy before it occurs. Make sure you have the tools for any accident situation by stocking your car with the following safety kit essentials:
- Window breaker. A window breaker is specially designed to break through tough vehicular glass to allow you to create an exit when you’re unable to open the doors.
- Belt cutter, Swiss Army knife, or scissors. A sharp implement can help you to quickly free yourself and children from seat belts and restraints, help deflate airbags to give you more room to maneuver, cut away obtrusive upholstery, etc.
- First aid/survival kit. In case of injury, a properly stocked first aid kit can help control wounds until help arrives. The kit should include:
- Bandages
- Tape
- Pain killers
- Pencil and paper
- Whistle
- Bright colored cloth that you can tie to your antenna as a distress signal
- Emergency electronics. An extra cell phone charger and an adapter—make sure they’re compatible with your vehicle’s port—can be lifesavers in case your phone battery dies. Flashlights and batteries can be used to signal for help, as well as provide light at night. A portable radio can be used to monitor traffic and weather conditions in case your car’s radio is damaged.
- Distress signals. Road flares, reflective emergency signs, and brightly colored cloth can all be used to signal other motorists that there was an accident, you need help, or that they need to proceed with caution to avoid further calamity.
- Food and water. Low blood sugar and dehydration are serious affects of being trapped in a car. Make sure you have a gallon of fresh water and sustainable snacks (dried fruits, candy bars, nuts, etc.) in an accessible area.
- Wool or flame-resistant blankets. Blankets can not only keep frostbite at bay, but flame-resistant blankets can come in handy and protect you from burns in the event of a car fire.
- Extra cash. In case of unforeseen circumstances—lost wallet, overdrawn credit cards, etc.—keep a little extra cash in your car for towing expenses, gas, and other emergencies.
Our accident attorneys are dedicated to the safety of our clients. This why we’ve spent the last 20 years educating drivers like you on how to protect themselves and families during and after a car accident. We know the effects a catastrophic collision can have on your future. This is why we urge you to not only take every precaution when you get behind the wheel, but also take preparations in case of a disaster.