An emergency on the road can occur at any time, whether you have an old or new car.  Any number of problems could cause it, from a flat tire or breakdown, to running out of gas.  There are several things you can do to prepare yourself for a situation such as this.  First, you should sign up for a roadside assistance program.  Also, you should have a basic emergency kit in order to increase your safety and help get you back on the road.

Even with a road service program, you need access to a phone in order to contact them.  You could be on the side of the road waiting for a while, so it is essential to have a few items in a basic emergency kit.

Your emergency kit should first and foremost have a cell phone to call for emergency auto assistance.  Also, you should have flares to warn other drivers that your car is broken down.  A fire extinguisher will keep your vehicle from undergoing a great amount of damage should it catch on fire.  In addition, you need foam tire sealant, a jack and a lug wrench in the event that you have tire punctures. Finally, jumper cables are a must in case of a dead battery.