Driving has become such a normal part of our everyday lives that we tend to neglect preparations for worst-case scenarios. These issues can arise at any time and for many reasons, including mistakes on our part as drivers, other distracted motorists, car failure, or changing weather conditions.

If you’re a driver, it pays to be prepared for anything, so think about purchasing these three items to keep you safe while driving, because you never know what will happen.

Problem: Batteries

Like gas, batteries give our vehicles power. Without them, our cars wouldn’t start. But unlike gas, we aren’t constantly charging our cars’ batteries on a regular basis, so we tend not to think about them too much. We only tend to worry about them when it’s too late and they’ve already died, whether due to age or accidentally leaving the car on.

Solution: Jumper Cables

Having a pair of jumper cables in your trunk and being knowledgeable about how to use them will make the inconvenience of a dead battery much less frustrating. It can save you the expense of having your vehicle towed and will get you back on the road long enough to get the problem fully resolved.

Problem: Loss of Traction

Your tires can lose traction because of a number of things—driving on loose gravel, bad road conditions, or if your tire treads are worn thin. Traction loss is one of the most common issues that plague motorists, and it can cause deadly accidents in the worst of circumstances.

Solution: Fresh Tires

The best way to avoid traction loss is to know how deep your tire treads are. Replacing old tires with a fresh set is just one of several ways to improve your vehicle, and always having spare tires is one of the most reliable ways to make sure you stay safe while driving.

Problem: Getting Stranded

You never know when or where your car is going to break down. It could be down the street from a gas station in the summer or it could be in a rural, forested area in winter. In the latter circumstances, you don’t know how long it will be until help arrives, and your safety is at risk in extreme weather situations.

Solution: Emergency Kit

Having an emergency supply of extra clothing, blankets, and water in your car can make all the difference in dire conditions. This can keep you safe long enough for help to arrive.

Conclusion: Show Up Prepared

Being ready for these situations before they happen will ensure your continued wellbeing and lower your risk of sustaining an injury. Be sure to be proactive in your preparations instead of reactive, and drive safe.