3 Essential Emergency Contacts to Keep in Your Cell Phone

Driving down an unlit highway at night, your tire blows and you swerve into a ditch. Who you gonna call? You can try the Ghostbusters, but Bill Murray is probably too busy being famous to drive you to the hospital.

It’s far more useful to have a few reliable contacts programmed into your phone. Here are three that you should keep handy in case of car trouble or serious emergency.

1. ICE numbers

ICE (In Case of Emergency) numbers are your emergency contacts. If you need help, or paramedics find your phone during a medical emergency, an ICE number will immediately call a trusted friend or family member. Program two or three ICE numbers (labeled ICE1, ICE2, etc.) into your phone in case your first emergency contact is unavailable.

2. Roadside assistance

There are several places to get roadside assistance, including motor clubs, credit card companies, cell phone carriers, vehicle manufacturers, and of course, car insurance providers. Whoever you trust to change your flat tire, make sure the number is saved in your phone.

3. Insurance agent or provider

After an accident, you’ll want to contact your insurance company immediately. Program your agent’s direct line or your carrier’s 1-800 claims hotline number into your phone. Your carrier will be able to help you start the claims process.

Pro tip: Lifehacker.com recommends putting an ICE number on your smartphone’s lock screen wallpaper. If you’re hurt or unconscious, paramedics or anyone else who finds you will be able to easily see the information and get in touch with your emergency contact without unlocking your phone.

What emergency numbers do you keep in your phone? Let us know in the comments below.