Roadside emergencies are stressful when they happen but they can also be dangerous.

There are several items you should carry in your vehicle to ensure your safety in the event of a roadside emergency, be it due to a tire problem, or a mechanical failure or even just running out of gas.

You should ensure you have a cell phone to contact roadside assistance, a relative or friend or even the police, and make sure you have a charger for it in your vehicle too.

Often a mechanical failure such as no windshield wipers in the rain or a failed headlamp can be due to something small like a burned out fuse so always carry a spare set. The same goes for headlamp and other bulbs.

A jumper cable is essential if the car will not start due to a flat battery but even more useful is a portable battery booster which you can use without the need for a second car.

Always carry a flashlight in case you have an emergency at night and make sure it is both bright and weatherproof. Try and purchase one with a mounting system or a stand so that you do not need to use one hand to hold it and ensure you have spare batteries and a bulb in the vehicle as well.

To learn more about your rights and potential compensation for your accident in North Dakota, please call the Williston accident attorneys of Maring Williams Law Office, P.C. at (800) 492-5297 or contact us online today.

There are over 1.5 million accidents a year due to snow, sleet or ice with winter conditions making up 17% of weather related crashes and fatalities.

Being prepared to drive in the snow is the key. If you are fortunate enough to have a choice of vehicles a 4 wheel drive truck or SUV are superior in winter conditions, stopping approximately four metres before a sub compact or minivan. Adding snow tires to your truck or SUV will give your maximum traction. If you live in, or are travelling through an area with heavy snowfall consider investing in a good set of snow tires and always make sure you have the proper tire pressure and good tread depth.

Always keep your fuel tank full. You don’t want to run out of gas in bad weather and half empty gas tanks can also cause ice in the fuel lines. Check your headlights and taillights are in working condition and the glass clean and that the fluid levels such as oil and antifreeze are at the correct levels.

The safest thing for driving in snow is to slow down and be patient. Driving in snow changes how your vehicle interacts with the road and coming to stop in snow will take twice as long as it would on a dry road, while stopping in icy conditions will take three times the distance.

In addition to watching your speed, avoid sudden breaking, accelerating, sharp turns of wheel and unnecessary lane changing as most accidents are caused by drivers travelling too fast. Look ahead as far as possible to watch for any obstacles or incidents, stay well back from snow plows and never pass a snow plow on the right hand side.

To learn more about your rights and potential compensation for your accident in North Dakota, please call the Williston accident attorneys of Maring Williams Law Office, P.C. at (800) 492-5297 or contact us online today.