Emergency kit for the car: you should always have this with you

Carrying an emergency kit in the car has long been a legal requirement. If you are caught during a check without emergency equipment, a hefty fine is payable. In this practical tip, we show you what the emergency kit should contain.

Statutory car emergency kit

The emergency set required by law as part of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) only includes the most necessary things that you may need in the event of a car breakdown or an accident.

• Of course, the first-aid kit is very important, which, according to paragraph 35h StVZO, must be in a car. If you buy a first aid kit that complies with DIN standard 13164, you are on the safe side. However, only as long as the set is complete and the expiration date has not expired.
• Since some of the aids are sterile packed, you must pay attention to the expiry date and replace the first-aid kit in good time. Of course, you don't have to throw away the dressing material. The dressing materials are still very good to use for small injuries at home.
• Carrying a warning triangle is also compulsory according to paragraph 53a of the StVZO and since 2014, car drivers must always have a safety vest with them.
• This guarantees that you will be clearly visible to other road users during unscheduled stays on the hard shoulder or at an accident site.

Emergency kit for a car accident

In addition to the safety precautions prescribed in the StVZO, it is worthwhile to put together individually tailored emergency sets. This is especially true for frequent drivers. It makes sense to pack the different emergency sets separately.

• In order to minimize the hassle with car insurance in the event of an accident, it is helpful to document the incident precisely. To do this, put together a documentation set that contains the following: a camera, some accident reports, a measuring tape and chalk. You need the chalk if you want to mark positions at the scene of the accident.
• If you only have a flat tire, car tire repair kit provides quick help as long as it is minor damage. Alternatively, use a tire sealant.
• If you have left your car in a place that is difficult to see or in the dark, warn the following vehicles with an all-round core light on the roof of the car.
• However, you should only use this aid in an absolute emergency situation. All-round lights are reserved for certain vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, on the road. All other road users are prohibited from using warning lights on the road. In a special emergency situation, however, you can rely on security.
• A smaller fire extinguisher should also not be missing in the accident emergency set in order to quickly get a grip on flames on the vehicle.

Individual emergency sets for all cases

In addition to the breakdown kit for the car, don't forget the occupants. A few hours in a cold car can be long and very uncomfortable.

• Medication set: An endless traffic jam can cause headaches, so the emergency kit should contain pain relievers. It is also helpful to have this on hand in the event of minor accident injuries. Disinfectant wipes and a pack of disposable gloves are never wrong either. Very important: If you have to take medication regularly, you should always have a small supply of medication in the car. An emergency card is very helpful for the emergency services in the event of previous illnesses.
• Children's set: Depending on how old the child is, they may be happy about fresh diapers and clean clothes. Games, books, crayons and a coloring book as well as something to nibble usually lift the mood.
• Emergency pet kit: leash and dishes, tick tongs, water bowls and something to play with and nibble on.
• Winter set: ice scraper, a folding spade and deicing agent. Of course you take the deicing agent with you if you park the car outdoors in freezing temperatures. Thick blankets, warm vests or cardigans, gloves and hats are also important.
• You should also always have a pocket knife, a kitchen roll, a flashlight with dynamo operation, a head torch and rubber boots with you.
• Furthermore, you can make a longer stay in the car a little more pleasant if you have durable foods such as crispbread or rusks, water, an exciting book and an LED reading lamp with you.
• Tip: Urine bags have also proven to be very helpful with long waiting times.

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