We all love the wind in our hair and the sound of cylinders at our beck and call.  But what happens when our morning commute hits a snag and we get a flat tire, or we get rear ended by that guy on his cell phone?  Make sure you’re prepared by doing the following:

1. Make sure your insurance information is in your car.
   1. It’s important to have this proof of insurance handy to exchange insurance info with the other party, or if you end up speaking to the cops about the situation.
2. Know how to change a tire
   1. You can wait on roadside assistance, but if you know how to put on the spare you can be on your way in no-time.
3. Keep an accident/emergency kit in your trunk
   1. This includes jumper cables, flares, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a disposable camera, paper and pen to write down accident details, plus some.  This ensures that you have everything needed when you first respond to a situation.  You can make your own, or purchase a pre-made kit.
   2. Honestly, if your car breaks down, or if due to some disaster you have to walk, you don’t want to be doing this in your work heels.  Keep a pair of tennies and socks in your trunk, along with a jacket if you have to hoof it for a bit.  If you decide to stay in your vehicle, make sure that you have a blanket to keep you warm.  Always include bottled water and some snacks in case it might be awhile before you get home.
4. Have an emergency hammer.
   1. Keep this hammer in the interior of your car, mounted or stored in an easily accessible place.  An emergency hammer is what you need if you ever cannot open the car door and need to break a window to get out.  These often also have a sharp edge to cut seatbelts, and some even have needles to burst airbags, built in flashlights, and a whistle to signal for help.

Hopefully you will never have to use any of your emergency equipment, but just in case, you’ll be sure to be prepared!