What Should I Have in My Car’s Emergency Kit?

No driver wants to be stranded on the roadside with car trouble or impassable road conditions. However, every driver has it within their power to be prepared to handle the situation if they should find themselves in such circumstances. Equipping your vehicle with a well-stocked emergency kit can keep you prepared for many common less-than-ideal travel-related scenarios. 

Whether it is a malfunctioning vehicle, car accident, or bad weather that causes you to become stuck, having the right supplies and equipment can help you rise to the occasion and save the day. Having certain tools can help fix a flat tire, dead battery, or other issue that causes your car to breakdown. Safety devices can be used to signal to other motorists for help or to ensure you can stay visible and safe on dark roads. Other items can be used to help you find safety, or at the very least, provide warmth or relief to alleviate some of the discomforts and inconveniences of the situation while you wait for help to arrive. 

Gathering a few items just in case can save a lot of heartache in an emergency. Going to the trouble now of assembling a fully equipped emergency kit can make all the difference in the future.

Here is a list of some of the items that are recommended to have on hand for emergencies: 

Do-It-Yourself Tools

• Tire and changing tools. A simple car jack, lug nut remover, crowbar, and spare tire are invaluable when you get a flat tire. It can be a tough job when rusted parts or inclement weather are involved, but fixing a flat beats waiting for hours for someone else to do it.
• Jumper cables. Having a set of jumper cables on hand can allow you to enlist help from any another motorist by linking up your car to theirs to jump-start your dead battery and get you back on the road. 
• Basic tools. A small toolbox with screwdrivers, a wrench, a pair of pliers, and other similar tools can make small jobs much easier when something needs simple repairs while you are on the road. 
• Flashlight and batteries. Obviously, a flashlight might be useful on a dark roadside, whether you need to see what you are working on or if you have to walk to safety. 
• Winter tools. An ice scraper and snow brush will help you prepare for your drive if you come out to a snow-covered car. Do not drive with icy windows. Remove all snow from your car’s roof, hood, and trunk so that it does not fall off while driving and become a road hazard. 

Safety on the Scene

• Flares and reflectors. Road flares and triangle reflectors should be used to alert other drivers of your presence so that they steer clear of your broken-down vehicle, or so that they see you and stop to offer help. 
• Reflective clothing. A vest with reflective markers will help you stay visible as you tend to a flat tire or address some other car repair emergency. 

Personal Safety and Comfort

• Warmers. When waiting for help in the cold, a blanket can keep you warm. Also, a warm hat and gloves are good to have if you need to work on the vehicle or otherwise leave your car. 
• Provisions. Keeping some bottled water and non-perishable snacks in your car can be a blessing when you find that hazardous weather conditions persist or that help is delayed.

Washington DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Drivers Injured in Car Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, reach out to the experienced Washington DC car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Our experienced legal team will investigate the cause of your accident, keep you informed during the process, and fight to get the compensation for which you are entitled. Call us today at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, DC, we work with clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.