When you drive for work, you spend hours on highways and interstates. This makes it important to be prepared for any emergency or unexpected situation that might arise while you’re away from home. Stuck in the ice and snow? Hit a deer? In an accident with a USPS mail truck and need to submit a USPS claim? Having certain items in your vehicle can help make sure that you are safe and ready for whatever comes your way. Here are some of the must-have items every driver should have in their vehicle.
Car Emergency Kit
Every vehicle should be equipped with a basic car emergency kit including items like jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, road flares or reflectors, a tire pressure gauge and an extra gallon of coolant in case your engine overheats. Having these items on hand can save you from having to call a tow truck or get an expensive repair.
Cell Phone and Charger
Having a cell phone on hand is essential for any driver, as it can be used in case of an emergency. Keep your phone charger with you at all times so that you never have to worry about being stranded without power or contact. Make sure you’ve got your phone updated so emergency calls can be made via satellite if you have bad reception.
Spare Tire
You should always carry a spare tire in your vehicle. A flat tire can be one of the most frustrating and potentially dangerous situations on the road, so it’s important to have a reliable spare ready to go. Make sure that you check the pressure regularly and keep your spare properly inflated so that it is safe to use if needed.
Bad Weather Gear
It’s important to be prepared for bad weather, especially if you are driving in areas that experience extreme temperatures or storms. Have an emergency blanket, a few extra bottles of water and some non-perishable snacks on hand in case you get stuck in the snow or rain. A shovel can also be helpful if you need to dig out from a particularly deep snow drift.
Safety Gear
Every driver should have safety equipment such as reflective vests, a fire extinguisher and emergency flares in their vehicle. These items can help if you need to flag down help or respond to an accident on the road. Make sure that your safety gear is in good condition and easily accessible so that it can be used quickly in an emergency.
Navigation System
Having a GPS or navigation system in your vehicle will help you find your way around unfamiliar areas without getting lost. This can be especially useful if you are traveling to new places for work and need to get from one place to another quickly and efficiently.
Hit the Road and Stay Safe!
These items will help make sure that you are prepared for any situation while on the road. Being aware of your surroundings and having the right tools can help keep you safe and make your travels more pleasant. With these items in your vehicle, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.