Accident prevention starts well before you get behind the wheel. As Popular Mechanics explains, packing an emergency kit can be the difference between resolving issues quickly and being stuck in a precarious situation. You do not have to be driving to get injured in a crash. Many accident injuries and fatalities happen to people who break down.
You never know when a drunk, fatigued, or distracted driver will drift onto the shoulder. But with the right emergency kit, you can fix small problems and get back on the road.
If you were injured in a crash that you did not cause, contact Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. A Birmingham auto accident lawyer can determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free consultation.
What to Include in Your Vehicle’s Emergency Pack
Your emergency pack should contain everything you need to make small repairs and address injuries. It should also contain food and water in case you break down for several hours.
The Department of Motor Vehicles recommends that you pack:
- A multi-tool or pocketknife
- Flares
- A triangle reflector
- A first-aid kit
- Latex gloves
- Motor oil
- Jumper cables
- A bottle of antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Fuses of various sizes
- A blanket
- A flashlight
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- A flathead screwdriver
- Vise grips
- A tire inflator
- An adjustable wrench
- A pair of pliers
- A tire pressure gauge
- A roll of duct tape
- A roll of paper towels
- A spray bottle with washer fluid
- Old rags
- A funnel
- Bottled water
- And dry snacks or energy bars
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
What to Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down
Many new drivers have no idea how to respond to a breakdown, and experienced motorists sometimes make mistakes. If your vehicle stops running, follow these steps:
- Move your vehicle as far off the road as possible;
- Do not stand on the edge of the road or highway while checking your vehicle;
- Turn on warning lights to alert oncoming traffic;
- Set flares and reflective triangles;
- Raise the hood to indicate you need help;
- If you can get your vehicle a safe distance off the road, remain inside with the windows up and doors locked;
- And do not accept a lift from a passing motorist; rather, stay with your vehicle and other members of your party, and request that he or she sends help.
Car accidents can happen at almost any time. Driver error contributes to most crashes. Although no amount of money can undo the injuries or trauma, a successful claim may help you maintain financial stability.
If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Alabama, contact a Birmingham auto accident attorney from Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. We will help you fight for the maximum compensation for lost income, medical bills and other damages. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
