When your car breaks down on the side of the road, it’s often unexpected. This is why it’s wise to always be prepared for such a situation. Keeping a few important items in your vehicle may help you get back on the road if you ever find yourself stranded. In the least, blankets, warm clothes, and snacks will ensure your family’s safety and comfort while waiting for roadside assistance. 

What to Keep in Your Car in Case of Emergency

1. Food & Water

If you get stuck in a fairly rural area or caught in a storm, it might take a couple of hours for roadside assistance to reach you. Storing snacks in your car, like bottled water and granola bars, will keep you and your loved ones satiated while you wait for help to arrive.

2. Safety Devices

Road flares, traffic cones, and hazard triangles will alert passing motorists that you’re stuck. They will also enhance visibility, which is especially helpful if you break down at night. Reflective or illuminated devices will prevent other vehicles from passing dangerously close.

Place any road flares behind your vehicle to alert oncoming traffic of your location. The first flare or reflective device should be 10 feet behind your vehicle, on the side closest to the road, and the second device should be 100 feet directly behind your car.

3. Jumper Cables

Jumper cables will be extremely useful if your car’s battery dies, leaving you stranded. To avoid having to rely on another motorist to jumpstart your car, consider keeping a charged battery pack in your vehicle, as well.

4. Tire Replacement Kit 

If you’re stuck due to a flat tire, a tire replacement kit will come in handy. This may even save you from needing to call for roadside assistance. Make sure your kit includes a jack, a spare tire, and a tire iron. Without the proper tools, you’ll likely need to wait for help or have your car towed to a repair shop. 

If you find yourself in a situation where you require roadside assistance, count on the team at Cogswell Towing. This reliable company has been serving motorists across Danville, Morrilton, and Russellville, AR, since 1949. They provide 24/7 availability and are always there when you need them. The technicians at their full-service collision center can perform any necessary repairs to your vehicle. To learn more about their service offerings, visit their website. Call (479) 968-4665 for roadside assistance.