No one plans on being involved in a car accident. Unfortunately statistics tell us that one out of every four of us will be involved in some type of car accident during our lifetime. Given those odds, it is a good idea to think ahead for what you will need in the event that you are involved in a car accident. Whether the accident you are involved in is a small “fender-bender” or a catastrophic accident, there are things that you can have handy in your vehicle that will help you with injuries if you sustain any as well as help you document the accident in the event that you ultimately need to legally pursue compensation from the other driver. So what can you put in your vehicle now that may help you in the event of an accident?
1. First aid kit. A first aid kit should include-at a bare minimum- antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, instant cold compress, bandages, sterile gauze and a thermometer.
2. Blanket. Keep a blanket in your trunk in the event someone goes into shock.
3. Road flairs. These can be placed along the road to warn oncoming traffic to slow down.
4. Reflective triangle. These can also be placed in the road and used to warn oncoming traffic.
5. Disposable camera. If you are able to take photos of the accident then you should do so immediately following the accident if it is safe to do so.
6. Pen and paper. Always have something to write on and with handy to get driver and witness information.
7. Bottled water and energy bar. You never know how long it will take emergency personnel to respond or where you will be when an accident happens. Having a bottle of water and an energy bar handy may keep you from suffering from dehydration and weakness caused by hunger.
8. Flashlight. If the accident happens at night you will need a way to see what you are doing if your car headlights are not functioning.
9. Cellular telephone. Most people have one these days but even if you aren’t someone that talks on a cellular phone it is good to have one in the event of an emergency.
10. Emergency contact numbers. Keep a list of emergency contact numbers in your glove box. We all hope that even in an accident we will be awake and able to answer questions from emergency personnel, but that isn’t always the case. If you are unconscious and unable to tell them who to call, it can be invaluable for them to simply be able to look in the glove box for a list of people to call for you.
This list has been brought to you by the California personal injury firm of Ledger & Associates. If you have been in an accident and would like a free detailed evaluation of your California accident case, please contact Emery Ledger at 1-800-300-0001 or visit the firm’s website at www.ledgerlaw.com.
