Bicycle accidents happen when you least expect it.  Are you prepared?

Here are 9 essential items that every cyclist should carry:

1.   Water – Always, always pack water. If nothing else, pack water.

2.    First Aid Kit –

·         Sterile gauze

·         An assortment of adhesive bandages

·         Self-adhering elastic wrap

·         Alcohol or Iodine Prep Pads

·         Antibacterial ointment

·         Burn cream

3.    Spare Tube – The most likely problem you will have while riding is a flat tire. A spare tube is compact and easy to change. Make sure you bring a tube specific to your tire and you will be back on the trail in no time.

4.     Patch Kit – Carrying a patch kit is a back-up to your spare tube. Just in case you use your tube and you get another flat, you will be fine.  Plus, you may be able to help out a fellow cyclist. Patch kits are fairly small and work for any type of bicycle.

5.    Tire Levers – This tool will help you if and when you get a flat tire. They slide under your tire and help pull it off the rim so you can easily replace the tub or patch a hole.

6.    Pump – If your tire goes flat, you will need a way to put air back in. You can buy a pump that clamps to your frame for easy storage.  Some riders choose CO2 cartridges instead of pumps. They are battery-sized tubes that give a burst of gas to refill tubes. They are lighter than pumps, but can blow out your tube if you are not careful.

7.    Multi-Tool – This tool contains everything you need to take along with you for any type of ride. They come in various sizes and include Allen wrenches, hex bolt wrenches, screw drivers and more.

8.    Cell Phone – Cell phones can be used to call in case of emergency or to track your route.

9.    Identification and Insurance Card – In case you are ever in an accident, you or emergency responders will have the information they need. 

_{^{(Photo courtesy of http://blog.codyapp.com/bicycling-to-lose-weight/)}}

_______________________________________________________

Attorneys Jason Waechter and Sean Murphy are Michigan attorneys specializing in the area of bicycle accident and personal injury litigation. Waechter's firm has collected millions of dollars in settlements, awards and verdicts for his clients over the past 20 years. As well as contributing significantly to safety education and accident prevention.

If you or your loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident, call 1-800-708-LIFE for help!