Whether traveling to work, school, or other activities, getting from place to place takes up a significant portion of our time. According to recent data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the average American spends about 60.4 minutes per day driving. That adds up to over 15 full days of driving each year!
Because we spend so much time in our cars, some objects are bound to end up there—old receipts, water bottles, or your morning coffee cup. But there are several important items that you should always keep in your vehicle for unexpected scenarios. The types of items vary depending on where you live, how frequently you travel, and whether you have passengers like kids or pets in tow.
1. Documentation
These items are helpful, but some are also required by law. Jennifer Nix, Assistant Vice President of Auto Material Damage Claims for Grange Insurance, provided her recommended list of paperwork to have in your vehicle during every trip: “Always have your driver’s license on you, as well as your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. An emergency contact list and your insurance agent’s contact information are also beneficial.”
Keep important car documents in a folder and store it in your glove compartment for easy access. In addition to Nix’s recommendations, consider including:
- Owner’s manual
- Car repair information
- Insurance claim forms
- Pen and a small notepad
Your cell phone can also be used to store some of this information digitally. Learn more about which emergency numbers and information to save in your phone as well as how to use lock screen options to communicate with first responders if you find yourself in an emergency.
2. Weather-related items
No matter what climate you live in, inclement weather can strike when you least expect it. The U.S. Department of Transportation even states that 12% of all traffic accidents are caused by poor weather.
Add the appropriate weather-related items to your car so you can be ready for anything:
- Snow brush
- Ice scraper
- Small shovel
- Cat litter or traction mat
- Extra windshield wiper fluid
- Umbrella
- Windshield sun shade
- Waterproof tarp
3. Emergency supplies
According to Consumer Shield, the number of traffic collisions in the United States is estimated to be as high as 6 million per year. This makes it even more critical to create an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle at all times.
Take the time to tailor your emergency kit to your needs, your car and your location. Consider storing these items in your trunk to be prepared for an emergency:
- Wheel wrench and car jack
- Portable tire inflator
- Tire pressure gauge
- Spare tire
- WD-40
- Jumper cables
- Clean, empty, refillable gas jug
- Flashlight
- Reflective triangles
- Roadside flares
- Bottled water and nonperishable snacks
- Car charger for your phone
- Fire extinguisher
- First-aid kit
- Multi-purpose tool
- Duct tape
- Blanket or extra clothing
- List of emergency phone numbers (if you don’t keep this with your documents)
Along with items that can help you in an emergency, it’s helpful to have some knowledge on what to do if you find yourself in an unexpected situation. Here are five tips to safely handle a roadside emergency.
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4. First aid kit
No emergency supply stash is complete without a first aid kit. Whether you need to ward off a migraine or dress a wound, these American Red Cross-recommended tools can be literal lifesavers if a medical emergency arises:
- Adhesive bandages
- Antibiotic ointment
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Sterile gloves
- Scissors
- Gauze
- Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or other medications as needed (store as directed)
5. Items for the family
If you have kids or a pet that you travel with frequently, consider adding items that can keep them safe and satisfied during your travels. This could include:
- Extra blanket(s)
- Extra snacks and water for kids and pets (Pack a fresh water bottle each trip if your car experiences extreme heat or cold)
- A collapsible water and/or food dish for a pet
- Child car seat or booster seat
- Safety harness or crate for your pet
- Extra umbrellas
- Cleaning kit (For example: cleaning solution, paper towels, regular towels, plastic bags, etc.)
In addition to having the right items on hand for your pet, many insurance companies, including Grange Insurance, provide pet injury coverage for your auto policy so your four-legged friend is protected each time you hit the road. Jennifer Nix explains, “If your domestic dog or cat is injured or dies as a result of an auto accident while it is a passenger in your vehicle, the coverage provides up to $1,000 for reasonable and customary veterinary expenses.”
Talk to your independent insurance agent to learn whether your car insurance will cover pet injuries in an accident.
6. Miscellaneous
Some items are just helpful to have at hand when you’re in the car. Stock your car appropriately depending on your unique needs. Some items could include:
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfectant wipes
- Face mask
- Lip balm
- Face tissues
- Makeup
- Sunglasses
- Gum
- Napkins
- Plastic utensils
- Foam cooler
- Spare change and cash
Keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle can prevent on-the-road problems, but some accidents are outside your control. In these instances, it’s good to know you have the right auto insurance coverage to get you back up and running quickly. Talk to your local independent insurance agent today to make sure you have the appropriate amount of coverage for your needs and lifestyle.
References:
- AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
- U.S. Department of Transportation
- Consumer Shield
- Red Cross
The information provided is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, risk management, or insurance advice. Implementation of any suggestions does not guarantee coverage, prevent loss, or modify the terms, conditions, or exclusions of any insurance policy. Coverage is determined solely by the terms of the applicable policy.