What to Include in Your Winter Driving Safety Kit

Winter has officially arrived, bringing with it treacherous driving conditions. Make sure you are properly prepared in case of a car accident by always having a fully stocked winter driving safety kit in your car.

Ice Scraper/Snow Brush

In some states, including Rhode Island and Connecticut, it is required that all vehicles be cleared of snow before being driven on the road. This means that all snow on the roof, hood, trunk, and license plate of the vehicle must be removed. Snow and ice left on vehicles have been known to create driving hazards for other vehicles on the road. An ice scraper and snow brush are essential items to have in any car located where snow is a possibility.

In Case You Get Stuck

A small, collapsible shovel can help you dig your way out in case your car gets stuck in the snow. A bag of sand is another item that is helpful if you get stuck in the snow. The sand can help your tires gain traction. Spread the sand in your tracks, especially near the drive wheels. Clay-based cat litter or commercial traction aids can also be used for this purpose.

Visibility Aids

During the winter, daylight hours and overall visibility is limited. A flashlight or headlamp can make all the difference if you are stranded in the dark. Carrying some extra batteries for the flashlight is a good idea too. In addition, road flares or reflective triangles that you can lay out around your vehicle help to make sure you are seen by other drivers or rescue personnel.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is something that every driver should always have in their car, regardless of the time of year. In case of an emergency, even if help is on the way, it is crucial that you have some basic medical supplies in your car. Items you could have in your first aid kit include hand sanitizer, synthetic gloves, alcohol wipes, adhesive bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, pain relief medication, tweezers, and eye washing saline solution.

Simple Toolkit

Much like a first aid kit, every driver should always have a basic toolkit in their car. This toolkit should have some of the standard tools you might need in case of a breakdown, including jumper cables, screwdrivers, a socket wrench and sockets, adjustable pliers, wire cutters, and assorted hex keys.

Cell Phone Charger

In today’s world, a smartphone is considered a lifeline for many people. It provides directions if you are lost, allows you to call for help if there is an emergency, and so much more. Make sure to always have a cell phone charger in your vehicle. That way, in case of an emergency, you can call for help.

Blankets and Clothes

When leaving your house, you most likely do not dress as though you will be out in the cold for hours on end. However, in the case that you end up in a car accident or with a broken down car, having blankets or extra clothes such as jackets, hats, and gloves will help to keep you warm while you wait for help to arrive.

Water and Snacks

Especially during extreme weather, it may be difficult for tow trucks or first responders to get to you. This could leave you stranded for extended periods. Even though these instances may be infrequent, it is better to be over-prepared than underprepared. Keeping water and snacks in your car will help you to stay healthy and energized in case you end up stranded for an extended period.

The cold weather can be brutal. The last thing you want is to end up in a car accident or with a broken-down vehicle and be ill-prepared to deal with winter conditions. Make sure your car is properly stocked with anything you might need to navigate the winter weather! If you have been in a car accident at the fault of another driver, contact the team of experienced personal injury attorneys at Rob Levine & Associates. We can manage your case and make sure you get the compensation you deserve!