Going on a trip or across town, accidents or breakdowns can occur. Being prepared can take some of the stress out of both of these situations.
You are required to carry your vehicle registration and proof of insurance with you, to be sure you never leave home with out them, keep them in a center console of your vehicle, if you do not have one, the glove box will do just fine as long as you have these two vital pieces of information at your finger tips.
The Insurance ID card shows your policy number, expiration date and very important, how to contact your insurance company in case of an accident.
The Vehicle Registration shows proof of ownership of the vehicle and when your license tag will expire. Be sure to keep the information updated if you move and don’t let that sticker that comes with this registration expire, or you may have to pay more for being late or get a ticket for an expired tag.
A check list in case you are in an accident may be provided by your insurance company but if not, here is some information you want to obtain from the other driver. Name, Address, Telephone, Insurance Company and policy number. Also be sure to get the name and badge number of the police offer on the scene helping you. Make notes about the accident while it is still fresh in your head such as, date, time, other vehicles make, models, year built, color and license plate numbers. Take photos for future reference.
Other vital pieces of information you will want to keep handy is emergency contact numbers. The number to your doctor or a local hospital, and also the number of a family member or friend to contact in case of a serious injury in an accident. If you have allergies or are on any medication it would be a good idea to have your medical card or a list handy with your other items in your glove box or console.
A First Aid kit is not just for the home. You should carry one in your trunk in case of injury in an accident or maybe a breakdown and just changing a tire. Flares at night or cones in case you break down are great for making other drivers aware your vehicle is on the roadway and are able to be seen in the dark way before the other driver is close to your vehicle. You can also keep an orange reflective cone in your trunk for this purpose as well.
Fix it up on the go tools are very helpful. A toolbox with screwdrivers, hammer, socket wrenches, which you may find handy to change out a battery. Contact your mechanic to find out what tools can be most useful for your vehicle in case of a breakdown to help you get back on the road or to a repair shop.
The Flashlight is always handy and be sure to check the batteries if you are planning a trip to be sure it works.
Whether you have been in an accident or had a breakdown, it can be a trying experience. Make it easier on yourself by being prepared.
Photo Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Budget Bi-Rite Insurance, Inc 