Car Accessories You Should Get for Your New Ride

We live in a world where we can't predict what next will come our way. From bad roads to drunken drivers to trailers, we can't predict when accidents will happen, but you can prepare for them by equipping yourself with the necessary tools and skills to deal with unexpected events. The road is a safer place for those who come prepared.

Whether it’s a flat tire or a minor accident, don’t be caught without these accessories to help you get out of a sticky situation safely.

Blind-Spot Mirrors

The first thing many drivers add to their new car is blind-spot mirrors. They’re a valuable accessory for preventing accidents and making parallel parking much easier. Blind-spot mirrors help drivers get a view of their car’s rear tires and the curb so they can park properly. They also help with keeping track of other vehicles when switching lanes.

Some drivers also add one on their front mirror to get a view of the back seat. Parents find this especially useful to check on their kids while driving.

Dashboard Camera

Lagosians will never forget in hurry the Otedola bridge accident, it was the dashboard camera that helps to show the real cause of the accident. Dashboard cameras (or dash cams) are more than just for recording scenic views during your drive. They are a security tool that can help you during tough situations, useful in determining the one at fault.

The road isn’t such a friendly place. There are people who will cause trouble to extort your money, but your dash cam can take a video evidence to prove your innocence. Moreover, you may finally be able to perfect parallel parking with its help.

USB Car Charger

A smartphone can be the most convenient partner when you’re on the road. You can use it to locate your destination while driving and to play music so you’ll never get bored. Unfortunately, these functions can eat up your battery, especially if you have them on at the same time.

You don’t want a dead smartphone when you’re travelling. Having a USB car charger can solve this problem. Just plug in your smartphone and enjoy the ride without worrying about your phone’s battery life.

Smartphone Mount

Every year, 390,000 injuries occur because of accidents caused by texting and driving, says the National Safety Council. In fact, it named texting and driving as a more likely cause of a car accident than drunk driving is.

A responsible driver knows not to risk their own safety and the lives of others by texting or using their phone while driving. Still, there are instances when you have to consult your phone for a map or to check the traffic situation in an area.

A smartphone mount is what you need to use your phone hands-free. It keeps your phone within your field of vision so you can check the directions while concentrating on your driving.

Flat-Tire Fixer Spray

A flat tire is not only frustrating, but it can also be dangerous. When you can’t afford to be stuck in the middle of nowhere, a flat-tire spray can be a lifesaver. Just spray it over the hole in your tire, and wait for it to inflate and seal the hole. It can keep your tire running and avoid damage on your rims until you are in a safer place to change your tire.

Don’t just depend on your tire replacement; always have a flat-tire fixer spray in your car.

Portable Battery Jump Starter

Here’s another accessory that you need to have in your car at all times. Batteries don’t require as much maintenance as other car components. As long as you keep track of how long you’ve used your car battery and you change it when the time comes, then you shouldn’t encounter problems with it.

However, nobody can really predict when their battery decides to act up. Don’t be caught with a dead car battery on a busy road. Always carry a portable battery jump starter. You can restart your battery even when you’re in the middle of nowhere.

If your car battery keeps dying, though, you may be doing something wrong. To be sure, check with your mechanic to determine the problem and find a solution.

Seat Cushion

Long drives are punishing to your bottom. An ergonomic seat cushion can ease away the pain and help you have a comfortable trip. Sitting down all day can ruin your posture and cause damage to your body.

An ergonomic seat cushion is not only for your comfort, but also for your posture. Maintaining good posture even while sitting can reduce the risk of back pain and help keep your body healthy.

Car-Seat Organizer

Snacking emergencies always occur when you’re on a long drive. You may be starving for hours if you depend on drive-throughs. Always pack edibles when you’re going on a trip.

If you’re worried about it attracting ants and other bugs, keep your snacks from their grubby hands in a secure car-seat organizer. You can get one that’s insulated so you can enjoy a cold drink along the road.

Car-seat organizers are not just for storing food. You can keep utensils, toiletries, and a first aid kit inside. This way, you won’t need to turn the car upside down to find what you need.

Quick Stain Remover

If you eat or drink in your car, there’s bound to be a mess or spill sooner or later. Don’t panic just yet. A good rinse-free stain remover can help you quickly get rid of different stains so you don’t have to pay exorbitant dry-cleaning fees.

Check the ingredient before you buy one. Some chemicals are not safe for people and/or car materials. A safer alternative for you is to create your own car cleaner using common household materials.

Final Word

Emergencies are inevitable when you’re on the road. You may not be able stop them, but you can prepare for them. This list of car accessories will not only help you deal with unexpected situations while you’re on the road but will also make your driving smoother and enjoyable.

If you never have to use some of the items on the list, good for you. But never be caught unprepared when emergencies occur.

The Ultimate Guide to Staying Safe While Riding Your Bike

Cycling is a great way to get around. It is good for your health and it’s even better for the environment. Millions of cyclists share the road with motorists every day, and largely, they do so without incident.

Whenever a pedestrian of any sort shares the road with a motor vehicle, there is the potential risk of an accident. While some might assume that the roads are getting safer for cyclists and other pedestrians, research from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) paints a different picture.

Pedestrian fatalities rose to 5,997 in 2016 from the 5,376 that were reported in 2015. This is an 11% increase from the previous year. The figure of 5,376 in 2015 was also an increase from the 4,910 pedestrian fatalities recorded in 2014.

When you look at incidents that involve cyclists and motor vehicles, you see that these numbers are also on the rise. In 2015, there were an estimated 45,000 bicyclist injuries. That figure is up from 44,000 reported injuries in 2006. In addition to that, there were 818 bicyclist deaths in 2015, which was an increase from 772 in 2006.

Staying Safe on the Road

While the numbers can be alarming, it is important to remember that riding a bike is safe. The odds that any individual rider will be involved in a serious accident are slim, and it is an activity that can have so many benefits. That being said, all it takes is one careless or reckless driver to turn an enjoyable bike ride into a trip to the hospital.

For the most part, cyclists do have to rely on motorists to drive responsibly. If a motorist is distracted, impaired or just driving in a way that is generally careless, there usually is not much that a biker can do to prevent the accident. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to risk and prevent injuries in the event of an accident.

• Protective Gear: Wearing a helmet is one of the best ways to protect against riding injuries. Studies have shown that bicycle helmets can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries.
• Ride with Traffic: Riding against traffic increases the risk of an accident. Whenever you are out on the road, make sure to follow the flow of the traffic.
• Be Seen: The easier you are to see, the less likely you are to get hit. Use lights and reflectors to make yourself easier to see when riding at night or in low-light conditions.

• Stay on the Path: Bike paths are becoming more common in cities around the United States. If there is a bike path on your route, try to stick to it as much as possible.
• Safety Check: You should always do a quick safety check before taking your bike out. Check the brakes and the tires to make sure your bike is in good working order.
• Signals: While it is the responsibility of a motorist to avoid hitting non-motorists, you can reduce your risk by making sure people know what you are doing. Use the proper hand signals when you plan to turn or stop. 

What to do if You’re Injured While Biking

• Recognizing your rights and being able to fight for your justice after a bike accident can be difficult. The last thing you want to do is deal with a drawn out and complex legal situation, which is why it’s important to go to a specialist. 

• A good accident lawyer can make all the difference in your case. Having someone with experience on your side will allow you to focus on healing, while being rest assured that your case is being handled properly. 

A bike accident attorney will fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. As your lawyer is familiar with the legal system and special laws surrounding bike injuries, they will be an irreplaceable part of your full recovery. Don’t suffer needlessly: find a reputable bicycle accident lawyer to ease your mind and help you make the best of an unfortunate situation.