What You Should Always Have In Your Vehicle in Case of a Car Accident

Safer roads were supposed to be one of the silver linings of the dark pandemic lockdown cloud. Instead, the number of fatal vehicle collisions increased in 2020. The number increased even more sharply in 2021. Observers believe that drivers developed some bad habits, like speeding excessively and driving while impaired when lockdowns mostly empties the roads. These bad habits have not changed.

Individual drivers cannot do much about global pandemics. Moreover, they cannot force other drivers to put safety first. However, motorists can reduce the risk of a collision as well as the adverse effects of a crash. Additionally, and more importantly, drivers can reach out to a Rockford car accident lawyer after a wreck. An attorney can then obtain the financial compensation these victims need and deserve.

Reducing the Risk of a Wreck

Three simple things, being ready to drive, watching the road, and maintaining a safe following distance, go a long way toward preventing accidents.

Owners have a duty to keep their vehicles in good condition. That means replacing balding tires, keeping fluid levels high, replacing broken lights, and addressing “check engine” lights and other indicators. Moreover, before they get behind the wheel, motorists should be at their best mentally, physically, and otherwise. They should be well-rested, sober, and ready to focus on driving.

Speaking of focus, many wrecks happen because drivers simply aren’t watching the road. Motorists should be especially alert for pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and other non-motorists.

Finally, maintaining proper following distance covers a multitude of sins in this area. Following distance gives drivers time to react to unexpected situations, whether it’s an issue with their vehicle or the vehicle in front of them.

Having Emergency Supplies

Part of the duty of care involves being prepared for the unexpected. That’s where certain emergency supplies come into play. Consider placing the following items in your trunk or elsewhere in your personal vehicle, especially if you’re planning a long trip:

• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Multi-tool
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Rain poncho
• Zip ties
• Jumper cables
• Safety vest
• Tire tread equipment
• Pen and paper for recording witness contact data and other information

Furthermore, if you do not have roadside assistance through your insurance company or another provider, seriously consider buying it. These plans are usually well worth the few dollars a month they cost, in peace of mind alone.

Calling a Rockford Car Accident Lawyer

If you were in a crash, reaching out to an attorney gives victims even more peace of mind during a very difficult time.

It’s hard enough to recover from serious car wreck injuries. It’s even harder when insurance adjusters call constantly demanding settlements. Your attorney handles these calls for you, so you can just focus on getting better.

Then, when the claim goes to court, it’s almost impossible to take on insurance company lawyers without an attorney. These professionals are willing to do whatever it takes to reduce or deny compensation to victims. A personal injury attorney levels the playing field.

Contact a Hard-Working Winnebago County Car Accident Attorney

Accident victims are usually entitled to substantial compensation. For a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer in Rockford, contact Fisk & Monteleone, Ltd. call 815-962–0044. Virtual, home and hospital visits are available.