National Preparedness Month takes place every September and asks you to plan ahead for emergencies before they happen. While most people think of hurricanes, floods, or wildfires when they hear "emergency preparedness," the emergency you're most likely to actually face is a car accident. At Hilliard Law, we spend our days helping clients pick up the pieces after a crash, so this September we want to walk you through what National Preparedness Month is about, why a car accident deserves a spot in your emergency planning, what to do in the first 24 hours after a wreck, and what should be sitting in your glovebox right now, just in case.
What Is National Preparedness Month?
National Preparedness Month is a nationwide campaign held every September to encourage individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead for emergencies of all kinds. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has led the effort since 2004, with roots tracing back to the increased focus on emergency readiness following September 11th.
Each year's campaign centers on a handful of core actions:
- Know the specific risks in your area, whether that's severe weather, flooding, or wildfire
- Build a household emergency plan everyone in your family understands
- Put together a basic emergency supply kit
- Get involved in preparedness efforts in your community
How Likely Are You to Be in a Car Accident?
You are far more likely to be involved in a car accident at some point in your life than to face a natural disaster serious enough to require an evacuation. Most drivers will experience more than one crash over a lifetime, ranging from a minor fender-bender to a more serious collision, simply because of how much time is spent behind the wheel. That’s why, as part of National Preparedness Month, we want to direct some of your attention to how to be prepared for a car accident.
A few everyday factors that can increase the risk of getting into a car accident include:
- Heavy traffic and long commutes
- Distracted or impaired drivers sharing the road with you
- Poor weather conditions, from rain to fog to ice
- Unfamiliar roads during travel or road trips
- Nighttime driving, when visibility is lower
What Should You Do in the First 24 Hours After a Car Accident?
The first 24 hours after a car accident matter for your health, your safety, and your ability to seek compensation later on through filing an injury claim.
Try to follow these steps after being in a crash:
- See a doctor or visit urgent care, even if you feel fine, since injuries like whiplash or concussions often don't show symptoms right away.
- Write down your own account of what happened while it's still fresh, including the time, weather, and road conditions.
- Store your photos, the police report number, and the other driver's information somewhere safe and easy to find later.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but avoid giving a recorded statement or discussing fault until you understand your rights.
- Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your case on social media.
- Let your employer know if your injuries may keep you from working.
- Start a folder for medical bills, repair estimates, and any other accident-related expenses.
- Talk to a personal injury attorney before speaking further with the other driver's insurance company, especially if you were hurt.
What Should You Keep in Your Glovebox in Case of a Crash?
A well-stocked glovebox can make those first confusing minutes after a crash far less stressful.
Before you ever need it, make sure your glovebox includes:
- Proof of insurance and vehicle registration
- List of emergency contacts, including a family member and your insurance agent
- Pen and small notepad for jotting down details at the scene
- Your roadside assistance provider's phone number
- Small first aid kit
If you live in Texas, you can keep contact information for Hilliard Law, so you know who to call if you're hurt. Our team is known for moving quickly to help clients understand their options and take legal action.
Prepare for Emergencies This September
Car accidents aren't the only emergency worth planning for, and National Preparedness Month is a good reminder to think beyond the road.
A few simple steps can help your whole household feel more prepared:
- Put together a basic home emergency kit with water, food, and first aid supplies
- Create a family communication plan in case you're separated during an emergency
- Learn the evacuation routes for disasters common to your area
- Review your home, auto, and health insurance policies to confirm you're covered
Being prepared, whether for a hurricane or a routine drive to work, can make all the difference when the unexpected happens. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident anywhere in Texas, Hilliard Law is ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (866) 927-3420 or contact us online for a free consultation.