During the unpredictable winter months in New Jersey, car accidents and breakdowns happen all too often. Roads frequently become impassable, or accidents occur and help can’t easily get to you due to snow and ice. It is essential that drivers be prepared by having a well-stocked roadside emergency kit in their vehicle. As winter approaches, it’s important to be especially vigilant.
In this article, we’ll go over what our car accident attorneys recommend for your car emergency kit this winter. We’ll also cover the common causes of winter road emergencies and discuss whether you should hire an attorney after a roadway emergency. If you find yourself in an accident this winter, call 1-800-NOW-HURT to make sure you are aware of your legal rights.
Causes of Winter Car Emergencies
Buttafuoco & Associates has published several blogs about how to respond to dangerous winter road conditions, but it’s always worth reviewing the causes of winter accidents. According to our car accident lawyers, some of the most common causes include:
- Icy Roads: Snow and ice reduce traction, making it easier to skid or lose control of your vehicle. Even experienced drivers can struggle to maintain control when the road is slick.
- Poor Visibility: Snowstorms, heavy fog, and shorter daylight hours can significantly reduce visibility, increasing the chances of accidents.
- Sudden Stops and Brake Failure: In cold temperatures, brakes can freeze or fail, particularly if the vehicle hasn’t been maintained properly.
- Battery Failure: Batteries can die without warning in freezing temperatures, leaving you stranded if your car won’t start.
- Tire Blowouts or Deflation: Cold weather causes air pressure in tires to drop, which can result in blowouts or flat tires.
These issues can suddenly turn an everyday commute into a full blown emergency. Knowing the causes of accidents can help drivers avoid some risks, but accidents are always a possibility, especially when conditions are out of your control.
Essentials for a Winter Car Emergency Kit
While this is not a comprehensive list, these are some items that our car accident attorneys recommend for your winter weather car emergency kit:
- Jumper Cables: A dead battery is one of the most common issues in winter due to low temperatures. Jumper cables will help you get your car started again.
- Bottled Water and Snacks: If you’re stuck for an extended period, staying hydrated and nourished is essential. Keep non-perishable snacks and bottled water on hand.
- Emergency Flares: If your vehicle breaks down in the dark or during a snowstorm, flares will help make your vehicle visible to emergency services and other motorists.
- Flashlight with Extra Batteries: In a nighttime emergency, a flashlight ensures you have proper visibility.
- Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench: Flat tires are more common in winter. A spare tire and tools to change it are must-haves in case of a blowout.
- Tire Inflator: Low tire pressure is another frequent winter issue. A portable tire inflator can get you back on the road quickly.
- Blanket, Hat, and Gloves: If you’re stuck for a long time in cold weather, staying warm is vital. These items will help you avoid frostbite or hypothermia.
- Road Salt: Keep a small bag of road salt to help provide traction if your car gets stuck on ice or in snow.
- Shovel: If your car gets stuck in deep snow, a shovel can help you dig yourself out, especially when used in conjunction with road salt.
- First Aid Kit: In case of injury, a first aid kit will help you treat minor wounds until help arrives.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Winter weather can create dangerous situations on the road, but being prepared with an emergency kit can help keep you safe. While accidents happen, sometimes winter emergencies are the fault of other drivers on the road or even manufacturing defects in your vehicle. Even if another driver is not at fault, you may still have a personal injury case for your roadside emergency.
To see if you qualify, consult with an experienced Northern New Jersey car accident lawyer.
Call 1-800-NOW-HURT to get in touch with Buttafuoco & Associates for a free consultation.
