You are cold, wet, and waiting for first responders after a collision. The person in the other car seems drunk and has a gash on his head. You feel helpless for a moment, but then you remember your car accident pack in the trunk. Grabbing a trash bag, you pull a hole for your head and arms, before throwing the blanket over your shoulder and taking it to the driver of the other vehicle and offering your first aid kit to help with the head wound.
Why Have a Car Accident Pack?
Instead of hoping or waiting for life to sneak up on you, it is better to take things into your own hands – which includes your safety and peace of mind. Car accident packs can be used for so many situations:
- If your car breaks down. If you're in the middle of nowhere with zero cell phone reception, having snacks, water, and a blanket could be a huge blessing.
- In the case of a car accident. It could be your own or even as a bystander, you’ll be thankful for the safety tools you have to offer.
- If you see someone get injured. You never know when someone else might need assistance, so it’s important to be prepared.
What is in the Car Accident Pack?
It always pays to be prepared, and having a car accident pack in your car may save your life or the life of someone else. You can purchase a premade car accident pack, or even make your own. The basic components of the pack, which you can place inside a backpack or even a reusable bag, are:
- Snacks and water: These can be changed out every 6 months, but it is wise to keep some snacks, such as granola bars or trail mix and water in case you are stranded.
- Heavy-duty trash bags: These are wonderful makeshift raincoats and can cover you in a pinch when it rains.
- Disposable plastic gloves: If body fluids are involved, it is important to keep yourself safe and utilize safety precautions. Treat all body liquid as if it is contaminated.
- First aid kit: You can purchase these at most stores or online. They normally include bandages, ointment, gauze, and other medical assistance.
- Blankets: These can be helpful in cooler or cold seasons, but also a comfort for those in shock.
- Fire extinguisher: Be sure to use the correct type used in car fires.
- Emergency flares: Make sure you have several so that you can place them at strategic points around your car, and a good distance away to alert other drivers.
- Auto escape tool: This tool can be clipped to your visor or your keychain and can break through a window if your car becomes submerged in water.
Injured? Contact Bryan Caulfield for a Free Consultation.
It is always best to hire an attorney to represent you after a car accident, especially if you have sustained injures. An experienced attorney can help you to maximize your recovery and better defend you against liability if you’re at fault. Bryan Caulfield has decades of experience in auto accident cases. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact our board certified personal injury attorney today for a free consultation.