Whether it’s a collision, a flat tire, or a snowstorm that leaves you stranded, emergencies on the road are no fun. They’re situations that certainly hit us hard – we may end up disoriented, frustrated, and even angry. It’s important to be prepared in case a situation does arise. From equipping ourselves with the right tools to knowing what to do after an accident, emergency preparedness keeps us – and our vehicles – safe and sound.
Have Your Phone with You
One beneficial tool for emergencies we almost always have with us: our phones. While you probably already take it everywhere you go, it’s an important tool to have in case of an accident – as long as you don’t text while driving, of course. A phone allows you contact the police after an accident, let others know your whereabouts, and (if you have internet access) use GPS for guidance. Be sure to put the letters “ICE,” in front of your emergency contacts. This stands for “in case of emergency,” and it lets rescue workers know who to contact if something happens to you.
Hold Onto Items for a Variety of Situations
Your phone is a good starting point, but it’s not a catchall. That’s because 1) you may end up draining your battery and 2) your phone is not going to help you fix mechanical problems or change a tire – although it can give you access to video resources that show you how to fix something. Keep the following items somewhere in your vehicle (the trunk is always a good place). They’re useful when dealing with a range of emergencies – dead batteries, loose gaskets, injuries, and more.
- First-aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Basic hand tools
- Tire-changing items
- Blanket
- Flashlight
- Antifreeze
- Water
Know What to Do When an Accident Occurs
Even when you’re prepared for emergencies, accidents happen. If you find yourself involved in a car wreck, your best thing to do is keep your cool. The first steps are getting away from traffic, putting on your flashers, and calling 911. Then, get the other driver’s name, vehicle make, license plate, and insurance information. Once police responders arrive, you want to file a report to give a truthful recollection of what happened. If there are any injuries, you want to get out the first aid kit or call an ambulance before any of that – your health always comes first.
Repairs from Kennedy Transmission
With emergency preparedness, you won’t have anything to worry about when trying circumstances hit. Still, accidents and mechanical issues happen and may require maintenance work in order to get you back on the road. If you’re in need of vehicle repairs in central Minnesota, Kennedy Transmission is capable. Find your closest location, and come to our shop for automotive services from the experts.
