A car accident is always unexpected. It can happen anywhere, anytime. If you get involved in one, you could end up sitting by the side of the road for a long time before help arrives. So, you should be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Here, with help from AAA and the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, we present a list of items that you should keep in your car in case of an accident:
- Personal items – Be ready to take care of yourself first if you are stranded by the side of the road. You should put in your car a blanket, raincoat, bottled water and a few non-perishable food items such as crackers. It is also a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit and extra medication in your car.
- Cell phone and cell phone charger – Make a habit of plugging in your phone and charger whenever you get into the car. Do not use your phone while you drive.
- Fire extinguisher – You can find many small fire extinguishers online. Select one that is rated for Class B or Class C fires.
- Warning devices – If your car is stranded on the side of the road, another car may not see the car until it is too late to avoid hitting it. Road flares, reflective warning triangles and/or a reflective vest should keep you safer.
- Flashlight – Your cell phone may have a flashlight feature. However, what happens if your phone goes dead? Keep a flashlight in your glove compartment and two sets of fresh batteries along with it.
- Work gloves – You may need to make minor repairs or clear debris. A pair of gloves can also keep you warm.
- Tool kit and tire-changing tools – If your car is not too heavily damaged in the wreck, you or a family member may be able to drive it away. However, you may need to replace a tire or make other quick repairs before you can leave. Make sure to carry a tool kit with at least a two-in-one screwdriver, pliers, wrench and jumper cables. You should also have a jack, lug wrench, flat board and wheel chock to change tires. An ice scraper, empty gasoline can and tire sealant or portable air compressor may also come in handy.
- Small shovel – If your tires get stuck, you can use a shovel to dig yourself out. You may also want to bring sand or cat litter to create traction in snow or mud.
- Blank paper and a pen – After an accident, you will need to write down the other driver’s information and, perhaps, get contact information for witnesses. (Of course, you may also be able to type this information into your phone.)
In addition to these items, AAA suggests that you bring duct tape, cable ties and assorted fuses to make quick fixes.
Finally, the most useful thing to have in case of an emergency is knowledge of what to do after a car accident. The basic steps to take to protect yourself after a crash, which we fully explain here, are:
- Assess injuries and call 911.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Photograph the accident scene.
- Do not admit fault or accept blame (and do not blame others, either).
- Get a copy of your crash report.
- Save records of the accident, your injuries and your recovery.
- Speak to a car accident attorney before you talk with the insurance company.
Contact Our Oklahoma Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident due to the careless or reckless conduct of another driver, you will need legal assistance to pursue the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost income and other losses. Contact Cain Law today.
Our car accident lawyers will bring to your case more than two decades of experience with protecting the rights of car accident victims and their families throughout Oklahoma. Our initial consultations are always free, and we will not charge for our legal services unless we secure compensation for you.
