Packing Your Vehicle Emergency Kit
The average American spends about 8 hours and 22 minutes in their car each week. Because that’s such a significant amount of time, there’s a great chance that an emergency could happen while in your vehicle.
Having a great vehicle emergency kit can help you get out of that situation or keep you comfortable until help arrives. Learn what you should pack in your vehicle emergency kit from your Edinburg car accident attorneys.
What To Include in Your Vehicle Emergency Kit
1. The Basic Necessities
Many of us spend a great deal of time in our cars each week. With that being said, you should have the basic necessities in your car to be ready for any situation. These basic necessities can vary depending on the amount of time you spend in your car but most people should keep the following in their emergency kit:
First-aid kit
Road flares
Jumper cables
Flashlight and extra batteries
Car charger
Rags
Duct tape
Baby wipes
Tarp
Multi-purpose tool
Emergency escape tool with seat belt cutter and window breaker
Drinking water
Non-perishable snacks
Because the number of supplies can add up, you should find a safe and effective way to store them in your car. Whether you have a “basic necessities box” or bag, properly storing them can keep you organized and help you find what you need in the case of an emergency.
2. If You Get Stuck on the Side of the Road
There can be various reasons as to why you get stuck on the side of the road. Flooding could cause your car to stall or drift off the road. In South Texas, it’s very rare to see snow or ice, but it’s best to be prepared for any circumstance.
Supplies you should keep in your car in case you get stuck on the side of the road include:
Toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Trash bags
Bar of soap
Zipper storage bags
Blankets
Warm clothing
Hand warmers
No matter what causes your car to get stuck on the side of the road, having the right supplies on hand can make a difference while you wait for help. If you see that there’s a possibility for hazardous weather, make sure your car is fully equipped before leaving the house.
3. When You Need to Evacuate or Seek Shelter
There may come a time when your car has broken down far from home. You may have to quickly evacuate due to a gas leak or other mechanical issue. If that is the case, you’ll need to be prepared to seek shelter elsewhere.
Packing supplies in a basic go-bag can help you quickly evacuate with all your necessities. A basic go-bag includes the following:
Change of clothes for each family member
Important documents, such as insurance information
Required medication
Food and water for each family member
Battery operated radio
Toiletries
Extra chargers and batteries for electronic devices
If there’s more than one person in your family, be sure to bring enough items for each family member. Even if you don’t travel together all the time, being prepared is better than being underprepared.
Get Compensation After Your Car Emergency With the Law Office of Bobby Garcia
Mechanical failures, weather, and other vehicles can all cause an emergency situation. Having the proper supplies on hand can allow you to safely get out of the situation or be comfortable enough until help arrives.
If you’ve suffered any type of car emergency, chances are you’re looking for compensation. Our experienced attorneys at the Law Office of Bobby Garcia can help you with your legal claim and get you the financial relief you deserve.