Milwaukee drivers always face the risk of accidents, breakdowns and bad weather when they hit the road. To help you to prepare for an emergency, our experienced Milwaukee car accident lawyers provide the following list of items that you should keep in your car. We have divided the list into two categories: Things you should always keep in your car, regardless of the time of year, and things you should make sure to bring along with you during the winter months.
The Essentials: Keep These Items in Your Car at All Times
- Current vehicle registration – Wisconsin law requires you to have a copy of your current registration in your vehicle at all times.
- Proof of auto insurance – You should carry an insurance card or some other proof of insurance in your car. Wisconsin requires that all motorists carry at least $25,000 in liability coverage per person and $50,000 in liability coverage per event or occurrence. You also must carry $10,000 in property damage liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage of no less than $25,000 per person and $50,000 per event or occurrence.
- Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench – Even if you have a motor club or emergency roadside assistance program, you should still strongly consider carrying a tire-changing kit in your vehicle. You will save time and money if you can safely change your tire on your own.
- Flares or reflective triangles – If your car breaks down on the side of the road, you will protect yourself with a set of triangles or flares. They may just catch a sleepy truck driver’s attention and prevent a potentially catastrophic accident.
- Flashlight – While you may have a flashlight feature on your cell phone, you should carry a separate flashlight as well in your car. The flashlight will come in handy if your cell phone loses power or sustains damage in a wreck. You should make sure to keep fresh batteries in the flashlight.
- Spare cell phone charger – Speaking of cell phones, you should also keep a portable charger in your car. If your car fails to start, or your car battery dies, you may be unable to charge your phone and use it when you need it the most. One-time use chargers often hold eight or more hours of battery life. You can also buy one for as little as $3 or $4.
Items to Keep in Your Car During Cold Weather
You should put a few extra items in your car from the late fall through early spring months. If you are ever stranded on the side of the road during the winter, you will be glad that you have items that include:
- A blanket or extra coat
- Hat and gloves
- Ice scraper
- Small shovel
- Bag of sand or kitty litter (for traction if your car gets stuck)
- Fresh water and dry snacks (to keep you hydrated and nourished if you happen to get stranded for a long period of time).
Our Milwaukee Auto Accident Lawyers Are Here for You
Accidents happen. Even the best planning will not prevent another driver from doing something careless or reckless on the road and putting you in harm’s way. If a negligent driver hurts you or a loved one, you can count on the auto accident lawyers at Lindner Law LLC., to stand by you and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation today.
