Equipment to Keep in Your Car in Case You’re in an Accident

Ward Black Law | | Auto Accidents
Emergency warning triangle and safety equipment near car

Depending on where and when a car accident occurs, you and your passengers may have to wait an extended period before assistance will arrive. Having a car emergency kit on hand can help keep you and your passengers safe and comfortable while you wait for help.

What You Need to Be Prepared in Case of a Crash

Here are some equipment and materials you should consider keeping in your vehicle in case of a crash:

  • First aid kit – Keep a compact first aid kit in your car so you have supplies on hand to perform initial treatment of injuries sustained in a car crash until paramedics arrive. The first aid kit should contain materials for slowing or stopping profuse bleeding from lacerations or other injuries.
  • Fire extinguisher—Consider carrying an automotive-rated fire extinguisher to put out any initial fires in the engine bay before the fire can spread to the fuel tank or other parts of the vehicle. Putting out a vehicle fire can also protect crash victims from burn injuries if they are trapped in the vehicle.
  • Registration and insurance card – The law requires drivers to exchange insurance information with the other motorists involved in a crash. Furthermore, if police respond to the accident scene, the officers will want to examine each driver’s vehicle registration.
  • Cellphone and charger – Keep a charged battery pack in on hand to charge your cell phone, as you may need to wait for police or towing crews to arrive and will want to keep in contact with emergency services until they do. You can also use the camera on your phone to take pictures and videos of the crash scene, which could be helpful when you file an insurance claim.
  • Flashlight – If the car crash happens at night or in low visibility conditions, a flashlight will help you navigate the scene safely and keep you visible to other drivers passing the accident scene.
  • Water – If you and your passengers must wait for emergency services or roadside assistance to arrive after a car accident, having water on hand can help prevent dehydration and other complications from accident injuries. That is especially important when waiting in hot weather.
  • Non-perishable food – Similarly, if a breakdown or crash strands you for several hours, having shelf-stable snacks like granola bars can sate your appetite and help you keep your energy up.
  • Blankets – Keep blankets in your vehicle to avoid running the engine to stay warm in cold weather. Mylar blankets (sometimes called emergency rescue blankets or space blankets) fold compact while providing the same heat retention as a fabric blanket.

Why It’s Important to Contact a Lawyer After a Crash

Insurance companies will work quickly after a car crash to get you to accept a settlement, which may not fully compensate you for your injuries and losses. Don’t make this mistake. Instead, get help from our lawyers to guide you through the claims process. We are ready to protect your rights and interests and pursue maximum compensation for you.

Talk to Our Experienced Greensboro Car Accident Lawyers Today

If you’ve been in a car accident in North Carolina, get the legal help you need to pursue the money you deserve. Contact Ward Black Law today for a free, no-obligation case review from an experienced Greensboro car accident lawyer.