Between commuting to work, running errands, and dropping off the kids at school, most people spend a great deal of time in their cars. In fact, a quick Google search will show that New Orleans makes an appearance on multiple “top 10” lists for cities with the longest commutes. If you spend enough time in your vehicle, eventually, an accident or emergency is likely to occur. Below, we outline the items you should keep in your trunk in case you find yourself stranded on the side of the road with a dead battery, a flat tire, or from an accident.

Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

• Your vehicle’s manual: From the type of tire that will fit your car to the recommended schedule of repairs, most information that you should know about your vehicle will be in the manual. If something has gone wrong with your car, or you need a new part, locating the relevant section in your manual can be a great place to start.
• Spare tire: It’s important to make sure that your spare tire is in good condition and that it is properly inflated. Additionally, be sure that you have the proper tools to change a tire such as a jack and a wrench. If you have never changed a tire, it probably is better to learn in your garage than on the side of the road.
• Jumper cables: A dead battery is one of the most common car problems. Luckily, a Good Samaritan and a pair of jumper cables can be enough to get you on your way until you can replace your battery.

Safety and Medical Supply Kits

• General first aid kits: Medical kits are sold that are specifically made to keep in your car. Common medical supplies can often include bandages, allergy medication, and pain relievers.
• Food and water: Non-perishable foods, water, and MREs can be a great addition to your car’s emergency kit. While these items typically have a long shelf life, be sure to replace them when they do expire.
• Blankets: While a blanket can come in handy in many situations, it becomes especially important during the winter months. If space is an issue, consider purchasing a “Mylar emergency blanket,” made from lightweight material and engineered to reduce heat loss. Emergency blankets can be commonly found in camping and sporting goods stores.

Items for Personal Use and Comfort

• A cloth towel: This is possibly the most overlooked, multipurpose item that no car safety kit should go without. Do you need to clean up a spill? Did oil or dirt get everywhere when you changed your tire? Use your towel. It can also act as a blanket for extra warmth or be folded into a pillow.
• Pen and paper: If you are ever in an accident, you will need to take down the contact and insurance information of the other people involved in the crash as well as any witnesses. Your smart phone is a useful tool for this job but pen and paper is a good back-up.
• Phone charger: Your cellphone can be your lifeline to emergency services. Having a car charger ready can ensure that your battery is always ready for use. It can also be a good idea to carry a spare phone and charger in your car as most cellphones can place calls to 911 even when not connected or registered with any network.

Injured in an Accident? Call (504) 470-3935

While maintaining a well-stocked vehicle kit can help you to stay safe and comfortable in the event of an emergency, sometimes no amount of preparation is able to prevent an accident from occurring. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car wreck through no fault of your own, The Womac Law Firm wants to hear your story. Our New Orleans car accident attorneys have been representing the injured since 1983 and can help you to understand if you have a claim.

Request a free consultation and speak with one of our attorneys about your accident. Call anytime, we are available 24/7 to speak with you.