Any driver who has experienced a flat tire while behind the wheel knows that at least one well-maintained spare tire, a jack, and a tire lever need to be kept in the trunk of the car. However, Tiger Wheel & Tire warns that there are other potential emergencies that motorists should be prepared for.

“From a flat tire or a dead battery to vehicle failure or even medical issues, there are many things that can go wrong while driving,” said Joe du Plooy, director of marketing at TiAuto Group. “While it’s impossible to plan for or handle every type of roadside emergency, a little preparation can go a long way.”

Tiger Wheel & Tire recommends that motorists stock the following basic emergency items in their trunk:

A well-inflated spare tire, jack and tire wrench (excluding run-flat tires)
Battery jumper cables, if you often drive off the beaten path, bring a fully charged battery booster in case you can't find someone to lend you a battery and help
First aid kit, check and replenish regularly as medications will expire and some items may rot due to the heat inside the car
Bottled water and non-perishable snacks in case your emergency leaves you stranded for hours
A map book in case your GPS fails or your phone battery dies
Mobile phone car battery charger
duct tape, a pocket knife, and Q20 lube, you'll be surprised how many roadside emergencies this power trio can handle
Cash, ancient paper money can help you pay for assistance and roadside repairs in areas where credit cards aren't accepted
"For the most part, the journey from point A to point B is uneventful and that's what we hope for our customers and all motorists, but you can never go wrong being prepared and that's the message we want to convey." At most you'll waste half an hour collecting these items and putting them in the trunk, but in an emergency these items will likely save your life and will certainly save your sanity," concluded du Plooy.