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A car accident emergency kit can be useful in the event of a collision or a mechanical breakdown. Although it is one of the best ways to be prepared for unexpected events, many people do not think about having a car crash kit in their vehicle. However, car users should have a safety kit in their vehicle in case of an emergency. Listed below are some essential items for car emergency kits.
Motorists will encounter problems while on the road, such as flat tires. Although a tire does not fit inside an emergency kit, there should be a spare tire, a tripod jack, and a wheel wrench in the trunk. Jumper cables are also large and should be in the trunk as well. A tool kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, duct tape, and a fire extinguisher may also be needed in the event of a mechanical breakdown.
When a car breaks down and has to be moved to the side of a road, having flares can be helpful, especially when it is dark outside. A flare will alert other drivers of the car emergency. In lieu of flares, the hood can be lifted up, and the hazard lights can be turned on.
A reflective vest can be useful in case someone has to walk to get help after their car breaks down. A rain poncho and an extra cell phone charger are important items to have as well. When preparing an emergency kit, a motorist should prepare for walking in case of a break down.
A first aid kit is essential. The following items should be included in a first aid kit:
Aside from medical items, it is recommended to have extra water bottles and non-perishable foods on hand as well. Non-perishable items should be stored in a plastic container, box, or duffel bag. All vehicles should have emergency supply kits, and those kits have to be checked every six months. Some of the items will expire and should be replaced.
It does not take long to check over a vehicle before driving, and regular maintenance can prevent problems from happening. Most vehicles alert drivers when the gas is low, but the gas light is not always reliable. The light could stop working, or the driver might keep ignoring it until it is too late. The best option is to always have at least a quarter-tank full of gas and to fill up before going on a long road trip.
Checking the tires regularly is also crucial, and vehicles have digital monitors that let drivers know if the pressure is off. If there is no alert system, drivers need to check the pressure with a tire gauge every few weeks. Regular oil changes also prevent road emergencies from happening, as well as tire rotations, fluid checks, and other vehicle maintenance.
Another way to avoid travel problems is to check traffic reports and weather conditions before leaving the house. It is best to wait until after rush hour and poor weather before heading out. Taking the time to plan an alternate route ahead of time can be beneficial.
The aftermath of a motor vehicle accident can be chaotic, and staying in control can be challenging. If it has not already stopped, the vehicle should be turned off and not moved from where it was right after the crash, unless it presents a hazards to others. As a general rule, people should not try to move their cars unless told to do so by law enforcement officers. It is not uncommon for people to leave the scene of a crash, and this is a crime in Delaware. Those who negligently leave car accident scenes can lose their license for six months or longer and face other penalties.
After a car accident, it is important to call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. If anyone is injured, the 9-1-1 operator should be told, and an ambulance may be sent after the call. Injured car accident victims should never be moved, but in some cases, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may need to be performed before medical help arrives. Having this skill can be a critical extension of a first aid kit.
Once injuries are attended to, a cellphone can be used to share driver contact information and to take pictures of the accident scene. Photographic evidence can show liability if a claim is made. Taking photographs of the other vehicle’s license plate immediately is always a good idea and will come in handy if they flee the scene. If there are any witnesses to the accident, their contact information should also be taken down. When it is possible, a lawyer who specializes in car accidents should be consulted.
A car accident emergency kit is important to have. After a collision, a Wilmington car accident lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you with your case. Our legal team has extensive experience in car accident claims, and we can help you collect available compensation. We have offices located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form for a free consultation today.