Right now the roads are less than perfect and Mississippi weather is unpredictable. That makes it a good time to revisit how to keep your car prepared in case of an emergency.
While no one can predict when trouble will strike, by being prepared you can help lessen the impact of any roadside disasters.
Keep an emergency kit in your car
An emergency pack is a crucial part of any emergency strategy. While you may never need these items, you will be glad they’re there. A good emergency kit will feature:
- Dried food like granola, nuts or protein bars last for months or years and can be a quick burst of energy if you’re stranded in your vehicle.
- A warm blanket can help you offset hypothermia or replace clothes if you’re soaked in a downpour. If it’s brightly colored, you can use it to flag down other cars.
- An old flip-phone will bail you out if your regular phone dies. It can stay charged for months when turned off, and most carriers will let you use deactivated phones to call emergency services.
An essentials kit is a cheap way to keep your car ready for the worst.
Staying on top of vehicle maintenance
The best way to avoid an emergency is to keep your car maintained. By having a regular maintenance schedule, you can head off most vehicle issues before they leave you stuck on the side of the road. Some of the most important aspects of your car to keep maintained include:
- Pay attention to your tire tread. Bald tires drastically reduce your steering ability, especially on wet or slippery roads. Keep your tires rotated, aligned and full-treaded.
- Don’t let a weak battery strand you. Car batteries wear down over time and can go twice as fast in the Mississippi summer heat or cold weather of winter. Pay attention to your battery and replace it as needed.
- Oil changes keep your car’s motor working cleanly and efficiently. If your car is running low on oil it puts added strain on other parts of the engine and could result in a dead vehicle.
By staying on top of maintenance schedules, you can head off most car trouble before it strands you.
Staying safe on the road
Preparing for emergencies can make all the difference when you’re actually in one.
Roadside emergencies are frightening and disorienting. If you or someone you know is in a car accident, a skilled attorney can help you with the resulting injury and insurance issues.
