Let’s face it: sometimes bad things happen. I know, you’re congratulating me on my ability to point out the obvious, right? Well, if we know that bad things can happen, why is it that we are so often ill-prepared to handle these “surprises?” Take driving, for example. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t either had a tire blowout, a fender-bender, or any other of the myriad things that can go wrong when you’re driving. But I do know plenty of people who were completely caught off guard by their driving mishap, which made dealing with the problem a lot more difficult. I’m here to help you (and me) avoid the same mistake, and all with a simple list. Here are five things every driver should have at all times.
Cell phone. If you’re like me, then it can be very easy to run out of the house, when you’re in a hurry, and leave your cell phone behind. This is especially common for me when I’m just running across the road for milk, or a block down the road to the gym. It’s no big deal, I think, because I’ll be right back . . . or I won’t be using my phone anyway. Not a smart idea – given the fact that a great majority of car accidents happen just within a few miles from home.
Fix a Flat. This awesome product, which can be found in chain retailers like Walmart, auto part stores, and even convenience stores, is like a miracle in a can. I’ve used Fix a Flat on several occasions to get my car from point A to point B after discovering a flat (or deflating) tire at the most inconvenient of times. There is always a can of Fix a Flat in my glove compartment.
Umbrella. Don’t get stuck in your car, scared of running out into the pummeling rain to get into an appointment, like I did. Keep an umbrella under your seat or in the glove compartment and avoid being late (or getting drenched) due to an unforeseen rain storm.
Jumper cables. These will really come in handy at some point in your driving career, I can guarantee you. Don’t ever think that you’ll never forget to turn off your driving lights, or that you won’t ever accidentally leave the dome light on. It happens, I know.
Flashlight. Don’t get stranded at night without one, plain and simple.
You don’t have to think of driving as dangerous or scary, but you do need to consider the possibility that, sometimes, it will be. Prepare for when those bad things happen with this list of five things you, as a driver, should always have with you.
About Guest Blogger:
Tyrell Romar is a huge advocate of driver education and preparedness. He is also a medical specialist and enjoys looking at sites like Soliant healthcare for tips and potential job opportunities.