Driving in Alaska can be quite challenging. From winding roads, to unpredictable weather, to irresponsible drivers, the possibility of getting into an accident is always present. No one leaves the house expecting to get into a car accident, which is why it’s common to be unprepared. As a law firm that handles auto accidents and personal injuries, we have plenty of experience helping those who have been in this situation. Here are some of our top recommendations of what to have on hand in case of a car accident.
First Aid Kit
If you or any other passengers in the car sustain an injury in the crash, medical attention may be needed immediately. It can take some time for emergency services to arrive on the scene, so you may have to treat lacerations, cuts, and other injuries. This is why it’s important to have a First Aid Kit in the car. Some items you should include in your car’s First Aid Kit are:
- Band-Aids
- Gauze Pads
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Alcohol wipes
- Pain-relief medication like Aspirin or Ibuprofen
- Flashlight
While many cell phones have flashlight capabilities, it’s beneficial to have a battery-operated flashlight just in case. If you’re in an auto accident at night, you don’t want to be stuck in the dark. You also want to be able to assess all the damage your car has sustained, and having a second flashlight can help. Besides, you may need your phone to call emergency services, and you don’t want to drain your battery by using the flashlight.
Cell Phone Charger
We all know that phone batteries can die at the most inconvenient times, and you don’t want to be in a precarious situation with a dead phone. If you’re alone after an accident, you’ll need to call the police, emergency services, and even your loved ones. Hopefully, your car still has battery power, and you’re able to charge up your phone.
Road Flares
Road flares are especially important if you are in an auto accident at night. Their bright glow can make sure oncoming traffic is able to see you and avoid the accident site. They also help the police and emergency service vehicles find you more easily. Lastly, it can help you see the accident site and the extent of the damage.
Important Documents
After an auto accident, you will need to provide all the necessary information to not only the other person involved but the police officers that arrive on the scene. Important documents include proof of insurance, license, and registration.
Emergency Blankets
This is especially true for those of us living in Alaska! You never know what the weather can bring, and if your car is severely damaged, it could leave you in the cold. In a situation like this, you’ll be grateful for the emergency blanket in the trunk. This is true even if you’re not in an accident! You and your passengers will cherish a spare blanket if the heat in your car ever breaks in the midst of winter.
With a few of these items on hand and a personal injury lawyer in mind, handling the aftermath of a car accident or personal injury may be slightly less stressful. After an accident, if you’re looking for a personal injury attorney or auto accident lawyer in Alaska, give us a call! (907) 276-5858