Winter in Seattle brings with it certain hazards and motorists need to make sure they're prepared for any scenario. Dangerous scenarios might include a vehicle breakdown in dangerous winter weather, getting a vehicle stuck in the snow, and more. This can leave an unprepared motorist stranded in cold winter weather for hours in some cases. Your winter car kit should contain provisions to help you call for help, help yourself, or survive while waiting for help.
Essentials in a Winter Emergency Car Kit
Make sure your emergency kit is complete and contains all necessary provisions should you become stuck in the snow or stranded in winter weather. Below are some items to put in your winter car emergency kit.
- Food items (energy bars, granola, nuts)
- Bottles of drinking water
- Extra winter clothing (jackets, scarves, gloves, boots)
- Sleeping bag and/or blanket
- LED emergency lights or beacons
- Torchlight
- Flares
- Bag of sand or road salt for traction
- Towing chain
- Shovel
- Windshield scraper
- Battery-powered radio
- Box of matches
- Candles
- Emergency medications
- Jumper cables
- Whistle
- Cell phone adapter
Brainstorm other items that could help you in a winter emergency. For example, if you have kids, keep a few puzzles or books to keep them entertained until help arrives. Make sure you have emergency provisions for all people in your family. Keep auto winter emergency supplies in an accessible area of your car, like the trunk or backseat.
Take Other Precautions When Driving in Winter Weather
Apart from preparing an emergency winter care kit, it also makes sense to make sure friends or close relatives know where you're headed before you drive, especially in extreme weather. Make sure that they also know your route. Keep your car primed for long driving and your gas tank always at least half full. Get a tune-up if you haven't had one for a while.
These measures can help you avoid danger and help people find you if you break down during a winter storm or when conditions are poor. Also check out our cold weather motorcycle riding tips.
If you were involved in a car accident, you may qualify for compensation for damages from the at-fault driver. Contact lawyer Max Meyers at 425-399-7000, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case.
