New Bedford Auto Insurance: Winter Tools to Keep in Your Car
There are many pre-made safety kits that you can purchase at local auto supply stores that can help you prepare for roadside emergencies in Massachusetts. However, your best bet is to create your own winter tools kit to help you be ready for any eventuality. Car insurance in New Bedford is essential to protect you in the event of a claim. Your local New Bedford auto insurance agents at Borden Insurance can provide you with tips and information that you can use to safeguard your vehicle year-round. Ensure that your auto insurance in New Bedford, MA, is up-to-date and be sure to contact Borden Insurance for a free MA auto insurance quote if you are in the market for new coverage.
Ice Scraper/Snow Brush
It might seem like an obvious tool to keep in your vehicle during the winter, but if you’ve ever seen someone trying to scrape snow and ice off their windows with a credit card, you know that this happens a lot. During the fall months, when everyone else focuses on autumn leaves, take some time to purchase a new ice scraper and snow brush so you will be ready for the first freeze and snow.
Windshield Wipers
While it is highly recommended by New Bedford auto insurance professionals that you switch out your windshield wipers before winter begins, it is also a good idea to keep an extra set in your trunk. Wiper blades can become damaged due to excessive use, and it can be challenging to locate an auto store in the middle of your commute. Make sure you know how to remove and replace wiper blades and buy an extra set when you replace yours in the fall.
Shovel and Traction Products
It is easy to stow a collapsible shovel or even a small hand shovel in the back of your trunk. This can help tremendously if your vehicle gets stuck in the snow or if you have to clear a path out in a parking lot or driveway to get out. Traction products can be as simple as a container of kitty litter or something more specific, such as rock salt or a bucket of sand. All you need to do is spread the material near your vehicle’s tires to get enough traction to drive out of a slippery, slushy spot.
Stuff to Stay Warm
Gloves, scarves, and hats can be helpful to keep you warm if your car breaks down. Your policy for auto insurance in New Bedford, MA, might include roadside assistance, but there’s a good chance you will need to wait for help to arrive. Make sure to have extra blankets, sweaters, and other winter clothing that will keep you warm. Specialty products, such as hand-warming packets, can also be an excellent way to stay warm while you wait.
Emergency Reflectors and Flares
If you do break down in the snow, your New Bedford auto insurance agency highly recommends that you use emergency flares and reflectors to warn other drivers that you are on the side of the road. Reduced visibility due to active snowing, freezing rain, or earlier sunsets can increase accidents. Try to get your vehicle to a safe spot off the road while you wait for assistance, but make sure to use reflectors and flares to avoid getting hit.
Emergency Kit
Your kit should include necessary first-aid items, a flashlight, a small tool kit, and a cellphone charger. Battery packs are available that can hold enough of an emergency charge for one or two cellphones, which can be helpful if you need to call for assistance. Consider water bottles and non-perishable snacks, which are great for drivers who get stranded for a long time. Granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and even energy bars can be an excellent choice for situations like this.
Do-It-Yourself Gear
Some other excellent tools to include in your vehicle are jumper cables or a jump start tool that works from inside your car or truck and a rope or chain, which might be necessary to pull your vehicle out of the snow. When you think about it, many of these tools and items can be helpful not just for you and your family but if you see someone else who needs assistance. A call from a family member or neighbor who is stuck out on the road is easier to respond to when fully prepared.
Get a FREE MA Auto Insurance Quote
Make sure your car insurance in New Bedford is up to date. Please speak with one of our agents to update your information or ask questions about your current New Bedford auto insurance policy. Need a quote for NEW insurance? Contact our team by calling 508-999-3636 to speak with an agent to get a FREE quote for auto insurance in New Bedford, MA, and the surrounding SouthCoast area.