Important Items to Carry in Your Car

SCOTTSDALE, AZ, June 06, 2011

Being stranded in your car in colder weather, remote territory or the dead of night is a serious inconvenience. You can avoid letting it become a serious danger, too, by keeping a few select supplies in your car.

Below is a list of items that could save the day in case of emergency:

First aid kit: Without proper first aid when you or a passenger has been hurt, most of the other items on this list will not be much help. The most important thing to do after a breakdown or car accident is to make sure everyone is safe.

Blanket: Even if you live in a warmer climate like Arizona, it can get chilly at night. In addition, a blanket can be useful for preventing shock to an injury victim, putting out a fire or enjoying a spur-of-the-moment picnic.

Food and water: Dense foods like trail mix and energy bars keep well and are small enough to be ignored until they are needed. Water is important to have in case you are stranded and thirsty, but it can also come in handy for a first-aid situation or an overheated engine.

Jumper cables: Booster cables can be used to revive your car's drained battery. Of course, you'll need someone else with a vehicle to provide the "juice."

Jack and spare tire: Even if you don't know how to change a tire, your owner's manual will tell you. And if the owner's manual isn't helpful, a kind stranger may be able to assist you -- if you have the right equipment.

Tire pressure gauge: Keeping tabs on your tire pressure can prevent a blowout in the first place.

Shovel: Whether it's snow or mud that swallows your car's tires, you will be grateful that you thought to keep a small shovel in your car.

Car accident kit: A car accident kit typically contains instructions on how to document an accident, a disposable camera, a pen, a flashlight (with extra batteries), and bandages. You can purchase a kit or put it together yourself.

Insurance papers: If you're in an accident, you'll want to have your auto insurance information nearby. In addition, some insurance companies provide roadside assistance. The pertinent information should be stored in your glove compartment.

Cash: Keeping a small wad of cash in your car can be a real lifesaver. Whether it's for cab fare when your car breaks down or an emergency Snickers bar when you've left your wallet at home, you'll be glad it's there. Just be sure to replace it after you impulsively stuff it into a bell-ringer's bucket at Christmastime.

Although this list is not exhaustive, it's a good start toward making your vehicle a safer place to be in case it breaks down when you least expect it.

Visit The Breslo Law Firm at http://www.justaccidentlaw.com