Should I carry special tools in case I am in a bridge accident?

It is an average spring day and you and your family are headed back from a long day, so you decide to take the Beltway. As you approach the middle of the Wilson, you see a car come barreling up behind you. Before you can react, it crashes into the car behind you, pushing it— as well as your car—into the car in front of you. Now all three of you are headed straight toward the side barrier and potentially the Potomac. With a deafening crunch, your car comes to a full stop as it smashes through the barrier, barely keeping you from falling into the river by pinning your car between itself and the other two cars.  

You make sure everyone is okay as you attempt to unbuckle and get out of the car. Unfortunately, all of your family’s buckles are stuck and the doors will not open. What do you do?

If you have access to the proper safety tools, you will be able to free yourself and your loved ones without the need to panic. However, if you are caught off guard and don’t have these necessary tools, your entire family could be at risk.

Don’t be caught off guard!

Emergency Safety Tools You Should Always Keep on Hand

You never know what may happen in an accident—you could become trapped, submerged under water, or suffer serious injuries before rescue crews are able to get to you. However, if you are caught without the tools you need, your injuries could become worse or even fatal. The following is a list of important tools to have on hand:

• A well-stocked first aid kit.
• Scissors and a Swiss army knife can help deflate airbags to give you more room to maneuver, aid in loosening belts or restraints (especially with car seats), allow you to pry doors open, and equalize pressure by gradually letting water in (if submerged).
• Belt Cutters also allow you to free yourself and children from unresponsive restraining devices.
• Window breakers provide an exit when doors are smashed or unresponsive.
• Flashlights can not only help you find exits, surfaces of water (submerged), and help you see what you’re doing during a rescue attempt, but can also allow you to find and help others who are in distress.
• A heavy non-flammable blanket can aid in putting out carriage fires until help arrives.
• Small flotation device to aid children if they become submerged.

Don’t gamble on your safety—keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your car. It is important to keep it accessible at all times to help prevent an accident from becoming tragic.

Protect your family by sharing this page with them via Facebook or by telling them to contact us directly to discuss any concerns they may have about a recent accident or injury. The consultation is free, but the advice may be priceless.