It’s impossible to predict when you might end up in a collision or stranded in your vehicle on the side of the road. Since anything can theoretically happen at any time, it is essential to keep a fully stocked emergency kit in your vehicle.

Maybe you already have jumper cables and a first aid kit in your trunk, but unless you plan for all possible scenarios, you could wind up in a compromising position, especially now that hurricane season is in full swing. Although stocking your emergency kit will not reduce the risk of getting into an accident or breaking down on the side of the road, it could save your life should you ever find yourself in either scenario.

If you were recently in a car accident that was not your fault, turn to Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers. An auto accident attorney will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free consultation with a car wreck lawyer in Lafayette

Read on to learn six essential items that you should include in your vehicle’s emergency kit

1. A Portable Charger

If your car breaks down in a fairly uninhabited area and your cell phone is dead, how will you call for help? You can avoid such a predicament by keeping a portable battery charger in your vehicle at all times.

1. A Blanket

The weather in Louisiana is fairly temperate, but you should still keep a few blankets in your trunk. You may end up stranded out of state, where it is much colder, or you may need to comfort someone who is suffering from shock following a collision.

1. Road Flares

Road flares are necessary if you end up in a collision in a fairly congested area. This will help you warn approaching motorists to slow down and will prevent any subsequent collisions.

1. An Emergency Escape Tool

Everyone should have an emergency escape tool within reaching distance of the driver’s seat. This tool should be able to cut through seatbelts and break car windows.

1. Duct Tape and Zip Ties

You never know when duct tape or zip ties will come in handy. Keep both in your emergency kit to help with minor repairs until you can reach a local body shop.

1. Drinking Water

If your car breaks down and you end up stranded, you may be stuck in the heat and humidity for several hours until help arrives. Thus, you should always keep several bottles of water in your trunk. It is also a good idea to stock your emergency kit with non-perishable snacks in case you are stranded for more than a few hours.

If you were involved in a serious accident due to another driver’s reckless or negligent behavior, contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers to discuss your options for recovering compensation. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free case evaluation with an auto accident attorney in Lafayette.