Essential Things to Carry in Your Car During a Winter Storm

Depending on where you live in Maryland and what the winter season brings, snowfall amounts vary year to year. On some occasions, however, blizzards strike and snow totals are significant. Getting stuck in a winter storm on the road can be a stressful and scary situation. When the weather is snowy, icy, and unpredictable, it’s crucial to have essential emergency supplies in your vehicle. If you run into trouble, you’ll be thankful you’ve prepared for anything.

In order to plan ahead for winter driving, it’s important to ensure you’ve got the following items in your trunk:

• Blankets & Extra Clothes. Dealing with an emergency while cold makes the situation that much more difficult. If you find you need to wait in your car for a significant amount of time for someone to get to you, you’ll be thankful you’ve got layers to bundle up with.
• Winter Gear. In the event you need to leave your car in a winter storm, you’ll want to ensure you have the gear you need to remain comfortable in the elements. Make sure you have gloves, a hat or earmuffs, an extra heavy coat, boots, snow socks, and a scarf packed away in your truck. If you know family members are going to be traveling with you, make sure they have some extra winter gear as well.
• Ice Scraper. When your car is parked outside in the cold for an extended period of time, especially overnight, there’s a chance you’ll have to contend with frost, ice, or snow. Having a strong, reliable ice scraper can save you time from waiting for your defrosters to kick on.
• Shovel. If you happen to get stuck in a snow pile, a shovel could save the day. Depending on how your tires are positioned, you could dig the spinning tire out or add fresh snow or dirt to improve your tire’s grip.
• Portable Phone Charger. The last thing you want to discover while stuck in a snowstorm is that your cell phone has died. This is why it’s crucial to not only keep a car charger in your vehicle but to also have a portable battery or power bank. If you find yourself unable to start your car, it’s likely the car charger will not work, which is why the additional, portable charger will come in handy.
• Flashlight. No matter where you’re headed, it’s always good to carry a flashlight. In the event you get stuck in a snowstorm, a flashlight can help you find things in your dark trunk, deal with engine problems, or act as a signal to other drivers. While you can always use your smartphone’s light in a sticky situation, an actual flashlight will provide a stronger beam and be more versatile.
• Snacks & Water. While not as common today, there’s a chance you could find yourself stuck in a snowstorm for an extended period of time. If this happens, you’ll want to make sure you have non-perishable, high-protein snacks and bottles of water.
• First Aid Kit. While an essential item to have in your vehicle all year-round, it’s even more crucial to have a first aid kit in the wintertime. In the event you are in an accident in a snowstorm, it could take emergency responders longer to get to your location. Administering basic first aid to those who are injured while waiting for medical assistance could save lives.
• Jumper Cables. Cold weather can negatively affect a car’s battery. If you can’t start your car, you’ll want to have jumper cables in your trunk to get your vehicle back up and running.
• Hazard Triangles, LED Flashers, or Flares. A snowstorm can significantly impact visibility during the day and at night. Being able to signal to other drivers where you are can help prevent accidents.
• Kitty Litter or Sand. Keeping sand or kitty litter in your vehicle can help you in a winter storm in a couple of ways. The added weight in the truck can help rear-wheel vehicles gain traction on ice or snow. If the event you get stuck in snow or slush, the kitty litter or sand can give your tires the traction you need to move forward.
• Basic Repair Tools. Minor vehicle problems can be fixed with basic tools. It’s important to learn how to perform simple maintenance so you can keep moving in the wintertime.
• Extra Windshield Washer Fluid. Ensuring you have a clear windshield is incredibly important in a winter storm. Make sure your windshield washer fluid has antifreeze components to prevent it from freezing and making your visibility even worse.

While you can take steps to prepare for driving in winter weather, you can’t always protect yourself or your loved ones when negligent drivers are on the road. If you find yourself to be the victim of an auto wreck, you deserve an attorney who will work to get you the compensation you need to recover. Our lawyers are here for you. To learn more about your legal options after a collision, get in touch with us.