It is estimated that there are about 6 million passenger vehicle accidents in America each year. There are over 69 million vehicle breakdowns, as well. The truth is that every time you’re out driving, whether near home or far from your usual stomping grounds, there is the risk of getting stranded on the side of the road.
The best way to deal with the potential for getting stuck someplace is to have a collection of tools and supplies that can mitigate the potential for risk, which means getting you unstuck as quickly as possible. Sometimes, you can do it alone and sometimes you’ll need help.
Battery Charger
You might have seen two cars close together with their hoods raised and cables connecting the batteries. This is the most common means of jump-starting a vehicle. A battery charger gives you the capability of charging your vehicle’s battery even without another vehicle around. Considering that all it takes to drain even a healthy battery is accidentally leaving the headlights on, a battery charger is a small but potentially game-changing item that should be in every woman’s car.
Portable Jump Starter
A portable jump starter is another way to ensure that your battery isn’t the reason that you’re stuck someplace. It functions in the same way as a battery charger in that it is small and you simply hook its cables up to the vehicle’s battery, where it then delivers power to the battery. At that point, you can turn the key, start the engine and be on your way.
Tire Pressure Gauge
You might feel your car pulling to one side and that could be many things, including low tire pressure. Tire pressure can drop with low temperatures or due to a slow leak. With a tire pressure gauge, which is the size of a pencil, you can easily make sure is set to the proper psi.
Portable Air Compressor
If your tires are low, a portable air compressor will allow you to fill them. Even if you have a slow leak, you can give yourself enough inflation to safely reach a service station, parking lot, work or home.
Emergency Kit
A proper emergency kit for a passenger vehicle should have essential gear that can keep you safe from the elements, as well as provide assistance with any tinkering that might need to be done. A small tool kit with wrenches, zip ties and screwdrivers, a flashlight and warm clothes and gloves are a solid start.
Cell Phone
Finally, even though you shouldn’t be using it while you’re driving, you should always have your cell phone and charger on hand. It is a special kind of key that can get you out of countless emergency scenarios, especially as most have the capability to communicate with emergency responders, even without cell service.
When you’re driving, you’re engaging with the world on your terms, but that can change in an instant. You might find yourself in need of a Honda CR-V starter, a jack or a tow truck. Making sure that you have the tools to get you out of any jam is essential for maintaining control in any situation. Visit an auto parts store today to pick up the tools and equipment that you should have to drive safer tomorrow.