The other day, I mentioned how probability is important in making and prioritizing preparation activities. Today, I’m going to discuss one event that has about a 3% probability of happening to you if you live in the United States. Its something you need to be prepared for because it can happen right in front of you, or to you, anytime you get behind the wheel.

I am talking about automobile accidents. In 2009, there were just under 11 million automobile accidents in the US resulting in 35,900 fatalities. While both numbers represent a decline from previous years, it shows that automobile accidents are regular events. They may not get the attention of a doomsday or SHTF event, but likelihood of being in an automobile accident is much higher. That means planning for it should assume a higher priority.

Just in the past few days I have seen many accidents in town, one just a mile from my house when I was on my way to the grocery store. Car crashes can happen anywhere there are vehicles, and there are tens of millions of them on the road right now. If you aren’t prepared for an auto emergency, you are ignoring a known threat to your safety. Focus your plans on updating your car kit first, especially if you drive a lot. I’m going to go into more detail on this subject soon so stay tuned.