If you drive the odds are very high that you will eventually be in an accident, even if it is not your fault. You might as well prepare for it in advance. Maybe you will be able to mitigate some of the risk.
Here are a few things that you can do to now:
Adjust your seat, seat belt, head rest and steering wheel to fit your body. The height of your position in the vehicle plays a large role in how well you are able to oversee your environment and minimize blind spots.
Make sure your mirrors are also properly adjusted – and use them.
Have a small first-aid kit in your car. Even if you only have to cover a cut with a band-aid, it will still be a help to have with you. It can also help you to assist others when necessary. The “Good Samaritan Law” protects you from liability when rendering aid in an emergency.
Keep a portable or disposable camera in your car. Make sure these have a working battery and unexpired film. Pictures are documentation.
There are many times in my career, that what was represented on a photograph, clarified the truth of statements made in the investigation. Keep a spare jacket and blanket in your car. Those can save your life when weather conditions change, and you have to brave the elements, without the protection of your vehicle.
A few granola bars and a bottle of water can also help if you are stranded.
A working fire extinguisher, warning triangles and flares in your trunk are useful if you are on the side of the road. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained at all times. If you have doubts about reliability, have your mechanic go over it.
Finally, make sure all your paperwork – registration, insurance card and a phone number for reporting to your insurance company or agent – is in order and that copies are in the glove compartment. Don’t forget to get the other driver’s information – name, drivers license number and insurance information, plus the make model and license number of the car.