At the back of the front seats on any car are pockets - usually filled with lint, old receipts, sweet wrappers and the like - but should be used as a life-saving kit for you and your car.

Research shows 85% of individuals are not equipped for roadside emergencies. The International Drivers Association uncovered lifesaving things you can store in those pockets, from high-visibility vests to emergency hammers.

“Only 15% of drivers are prepared for roadside emergencies,” says International Drivers Association Expert, Dominic Wyatt.

This stat irrefutably underscores the perilous reality that, while we love our vehicles and the mobility they facilitate, we might not fully appreciate the potential hazards and challenges that can arise due to vehicular emergencies.

So, what could go into those pockets?

High-Visibility Vest

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More than 40% of accidents occur at night or in adverse weather conditions. When involved in a car breakdown or accident, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions, remaining visible to other motorists becomes crucial. More often than not, drivers instinctively scramble for a flashlight. But here’s an alternative: the high-visibility vest, a non-bulky item readily stowable in your car seat pocket. Made from reflective material, this vest instantly makes you visible to oncoming vehicles, minimizing the risk of secondary accidents.

In Dominic Wyatt’s words: “The high-visibility vest is a classic for a reason. It’s not expensive, it doesn’t require any power source, and it’s size-efficient for your pocket. A must-have, without a doubt.”

Emergency Hammer

Some 20% of accident-related fatalities result from individuals being trapped in their vehicles. Considering the danger of getting trapped in a vehicle post-accident, an emergency hammer is another essential tool.

Designed to cut seat belts and shatter windows, this device can make all the difference during a life-threatening crisis.

Tyre Pressure Gauge

Many fatalities can be attributed to tyre-related crashes. A tyre pressure gauge is essential for maintaining optimal tyre pressure and besides, the ability to check on tyre pressure can serve as an early warning system for potential tyre blowouts.

Pocket-Sized First Aid Kit

Imagine suffering a minor injury during a roadside emergency with no first-aid kit in sight. A pocket-sized medicinal kit provides immediate access to bandaids, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, etc. A true life-saver in its own right. Quick access to first aid reduces the severity of injuries in 90% of cases.

Compact Multipurpose Tool

Around 30% of emergencies involve situations where a versatile tool could make a difference. A multipurpose tool that embodies a knife, screwdriver, bottle opener, and other utilities can be priceless during roadside emergencies, from cutting ropes to adjusting screws.

Guided by survivalist insight and expert advice, the clear message is: every driver must take a leaf from the survivalist book, becoming well-prepared for every eventuality by exploiting their car seat's extra pocket.

Admittedly, preparing your car seat pocket won't guarantee avoidance of  road emergencies. But survival instinct hinges on preparedness. And every single item kept readily at hand can mean the difference between life and death, rendering your journey safer, one pocket at a time.

Colin Windell

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