I posted last week that our son rolled one of our cars. He was wearing his seatbelt and was entirely unharmed. Praise God he came out more than fine! He was only a little sore the next day. Thanks to all who prayed and gave well wishes from the other post. Trudee and I went to the scene that night and I removed some items from the car. I went to the impound lot the next day to get the rest. I learned a few things and thought I would share them with you.
Passing Down Knowledge
I’m a bit embarrassed to say I don’t think we did a good enough job explaining to Logan what needs to be done after a car accident; how to get and use the escape tool (not that he could have reached the old one), how to cut the seat belt, how to break the glass, how to get into the trunk to get blankets or flares, if needed. We didn’t explain that we call police first and then parents and we didn’t go over how to contact AAA. Thankfully, a police officer from one town over was driving by at the time and saw the entire accident. He contacted local police.
Car Kit
I keep a fair amount of supplies in the trunk. There was damage to the trunk from the accident and it wouldn’t open. The back window was blown out and I didn’t want to leave my gear in the car. Luckily my back seats fold down to allow trunk access. The accident happened very close to home. If it had been more remote, it could have been longer for the police to arrive. Knowing the kit that contains warm blankets (it’s still 30 degrees here) was there was a comfort. As I mentioned, I don’t know that I have shown Logan how to get into the trunk that way. You can bet I will now.
Topsy Turvey
We have the rescue tools shown below in the side pockets of the driver doors on both vehicles. They will cut seatbelts, smash a side window and have a few other features. We kept them in the pocket so that if we needed them, they would be within reach. I hadn’t considered a rollover; I found the rescue tool in the back seat, well out of reach from the driver. I have since replaced it with the ResQMe Car Escape Tool
Final Thoughts
Things could have been so much worse. I know God was watching over the entire scene. I am glad we had the opportunity to learn these lessons now, to have the chance to make changes that could make a big difference in the future.
Here is another resource with some more information on how to prepare ahead of time for an accident, by Car Insurance.org
