Few people who have driven for any significant period of time can honestly say they have never
broken down or been in an accident while driving. At some point, you may find yourself in this
unenviable position and can better protect your health and safety if you have a car accident
emergency kit available. If you are hurt in a car accident, consider reaching out to the
experienced Missouri car accident attorneys at Steelman Gaunt Crowley. You can reach us by
calling (573) 341-8336. We offer a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.
What Is a Car Accident Emergency Kit?
A car accident emergency kit is a set of supplies you store in your vehicle in case it breaks
down or you are involved in a car accident. It is important to be prepared for any emergency on
the road so that you are able to handle any situation you confront. There are essential items that
you can carry with you to help in case you are involved in an emergency.
What Should I Include in a Car Accident Emergency Kit?
Some of the most important items to include in your car accident emergency kit include:
Road Flares
You will want to warn other motorists of the danger ahead. You could do this with:
Road flares
Reflectors
Traffic cones
Triangles
If you do not have any of these items, you could try to activate your emergency lights.
A First Aid Kit
A first aid kit can come in handy if you, your passenger, or someone in the other vehicle was
hurt in an accident. You may be able to use the supplies on hand to stop the bleeding until
emergency medical responders arrive.
Jumper Cables
Car batteries can quickly be drained. Therefore, being able to charge your battery could be vital
if your vehicle becomes disabled or has trouble turning on after an accident. Along with jumper
cables, you may want a rechargeable car jumper.
Flat Tire Supplies
Flat tires are one of the most common ways your vehicle can become disabled. Your tire could
also get flattened by metal or glass in the roadway. You may want to stock supplies to help with
a flat tire. AAA recommends these items to help repair a flat tire:
Tire inflator or travel air compressor
Tire pressure gauge
Spare tire
Jack
Lug wrench
You could also use an aerosol can of tire sealant for a temporary fix. However, these products
might not work correctly in cold weather and are not intended for sidewall damage or large
punctures.
Seasonal Items
It is important to consider the types of weather conditions you may encounter, which can vary
widely in Missouri from a humid, scorching day to a day full of ice and snow.
Consumer Reports mentions a few items that may be part of a car emergency kit based on the
season, including:
An ice scraper
An ice brush
Poncho
Gloves
A blanket
Boots
A hat
Sunscreen
Water
Contact Information
You might want a printout of some contact numbers for people or businesses you can call in
case of emergency. This may include a close family member or friend, a tow truck company,
and your roadside assistance service. You can also keep the contact information for our law
firm, Steelman Gaunt Crowley, in the event you are hurt in an accident and are unsure of your
next steps. You can reach our legal team at (573) 341-8336.
Shovel
You might need a small shovel in your automotive emergency kit in case your vehicle gets stuck
in mud or ice. You might also need some materials for traction, such as sand, cat litter, or salt.
Flashlight
You might need a flashlight for your car accident kit if your vehicle becomes disabled at night or
you are in a nighttime accident. A flashlight can help you see the other driver’s license and
insurance information, which you can jot down while waiting for emergency responders. Store
extra batteries near the flashlight.
Cell Phone Charger
While you likely have your cell phone on you, you might not have a charger. Keep an extra one
in case you need to make emergency calls. A power bank could also help provide some extra
power in case your phone battery is low.
Non-Perishable Food and Water
In the event it takes a long time for roadside assistance or law enforcement to reach you may
want to keep some non-perishable food and water bottles in your car.
Where Should I Store My Car Accident Kit?
Your emergency items should ideally be kept together so that they do not become loose in case
of a car accident. They should be stored snugly under the seat or in the trunk. You can also tie
down your kit as an extra precautionary measure. You may need to restock your emergency kit.
Additional Ways to Stay Safe
Some other ways that you can stay safe while driving include:
Drive defensively – Watch carefully for drivers around. Be aware that many of them
may be distracted. Keep a safe following distance at all times.
Plan your route – Avoid last-minute maneuvers by planning your route ahead of time
and locating any emergency exits if you need them.
Leave early – Speeding is a leading cause of accidents. Give yourself some extra time
by leaving for your destination early.
Avoid distractions – Keep your phone put away and minimize other distractions so
your attention is on the road in front of you.
Have your vehicle inspected – Before embarking on a road trip, have a professional
inspect your vehicle.
Contact An Experienced Missouri Car Accident Lawyer For Help
Hopefully, you will never have to use your car accident emergency kit. However, if you do need
it, a car accident kit can help you stay safe should an emergency occur. If you are injured in a
car accident, consider contacting an experienced Missouri car accident lawyer at Steelman
Gaunt Crowley for advice on the next steps you should take. You can reach us at (573) 341-
8336 for a free case review.
