Locked Keys in Car - How to Get Help
It's a nightmare situation that more than 4 million Americans encounter each year. Even with the most advanced technology, like smart keys, it is possible to prevent yourself from entering your vehicle.
There are plenty of ways to get back in your vehicle without causing damage. Begin by remaining calm and assessing your situation.
Call a Locksmith
If you lock your keys inside the car, it could be a stressful situation. It is important to stay calm and think of a plan to get back in. You could ask a family member to help you or contact a roadside assistance. But, it's best to call a locksmith to make sure you don't harm your vehicle.
There are many possible reasons why you may lock your keys inside the car. You might have put the keys in the ignition, you might have sat down to make a phone call and forgot to change your keys, or you might even have a broken key. Whatever the reason, it is best to call a locksmith as they are experienced dealing with this issue and can open your car without damaging it.
A professional locksmith will also be able to offer advice about how to prevent the same problem from occurring again. They can provide suggestions on how to keep your keys secure and allow you to use an emergency system for unlocking your car if the need ever arises.
It is important to keep in mind that you must always have a spare set keys for your car. This will allow you to easily access your car in case of an emergency and it is safer than trying to break a glass to gain entry into the car.
You should also inquire with your insurance company whether they provide roadside assistance. This could be extremely useful if you're locked out of your car. Some companies will include this service in their policies while others may charge a fee for it.
Call towing truck
One of the most devastating things that can happen to you is locking your keys inside your car. It can be a stressful and frustrating experience, but it's essential to remain calm and remember that there are some ways to help yourself.
First, it is important to ensure that you really have locked your keys inside the car. It is not unusual for keys to fall out of a purse or pocket as you exit your vehicle. You might not be aware of it until you return into it later. If this happens you must call an tow truck.
You may also call your local police department. However, this is not always the best option since the primary concern of a police officer is public safety and your car lockout does not normally constitute an emergency. It is possible to dial an emergency number and explain the situation, but they're probably going to recommend that you contact roadside assistance or a locksmith.
One way to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future is to keep a spare key somewhere that you can quickly access. It can be kept in a purse, wallet or even a magnetic keybox that is placed under your vehicle. You could also leave an extra key with someone in your family or with a friend, or sign up for roadside assistance programs which provide insurance for car locks.
If you find yourself locked out, don't attempt to open your car with tools such as a hammer and coat hanger. This could damage your car and cause you to be charged two emergency callout bills.
Contact Roadside Assistance
If you're unable to get back into your car and you don't want to risk causing further damage to your vehicle call roadside assistance a good alternative. It may cost a bit more than calling a locksmith, but the security that a professional can help you get back in your car is worth it.
A roadside service representative will likely be able employ a variety of tools to pop an lock or crack it open. If required, they'll also cut a key for you. They can also refill your car and offer other services like jump-starting dead batteries. Always keep a spare set keys in a secure location in your office or home. You don't have to worry about being locked out a second time.
Certain car insurance companies provide roadside assistance as part of their policies. Examine your policy to find out if the policy includes a locks. If so it, they'll typically pay for the entire cost of unlocking your vehicle. They'll typically only cover the cost for pets or children who are in the car, as well as other services that require more advanced tools, such as replacing a key fob.
If you do not have roadside assistance, most locksmiths and towing companies can assist you in getting your keys out of your car. You can also contact your local police department for assistance. It is important to keep in mind that 911 is only for emergencies. The police will prioritize your call when you or someone else is in danger.
Make a call to a friend
It can be very stressful to have to lock yourself out of your vehicle. Even the most cautious drivers can be in the same situation. It could be due simple negligence or a malfunctioning lock. There are a variety of methods to escape this type of situation.
Many people keep a spare key in their home or with a trusted family member in case of this problem. This is a good option, but it's not completely secure. You may lose it or forget where you put it. It is recommended to avoid this situation completely by storing an extra key somewhere that you or a third party can easily access. You can, for instance, hide the key inside an electronic box in your car. Another great option is to leave your key with a friend or family member who lives in your neighborhood.
You may be able use the services offered by a service club or an auto-insurance company, if you have locked your keys in your vehicle. These companies typically have a locksmith network who can assist you. In some instances they can open your car without damaging locks.
You can also contact authorities to seek help if you don't have an extra key. They may be able to help you get back into your vehicle by breaking the window or using a slim jim to open the door. This option is best reserved for emergencies. It's expensive and risky and police will likely consider your vehicle as a target for theft. It is usually better to call roadside assistance instead.
Contact the police
Everyone has been in this position at some time or another. It's not pleasant, but it's also not a major issue, and you can get out of this mess quickly with a little planning. It's helpful to have an additional car key. Keep it hidden (not in the back seat or coat pocket) and leave it with someone you can trust.
In some cases it's a good idea to call the police if you have locked your keys inside your car. This is particularly true if you're in a risky location such as a crowded roadway or a crowded parking lot in the night. In such a situation, the police will often break a window and help you get out. It's not cheap, but it is worth it to ensure your safety.
However, most of the time, it is better to contact a tow truck or locksmith rather than the police. The police are financed by taxpayers, and should be using their resources to fight crime, not to help with personal problems. Additionally, the majority of police departments have a policy that states officers cannot unlock vehicles for free.
Make open car door to check all doors before you leave your vehicle to avoid getting locked out. It's easy to become distracted or forget your keys in a hurry, so ensure you check them before heading out. Keep an extra key in your bag and it's a great idea to have roadside assistance insurance through your insurance or AAA. Hopefully, you will never have to use it, but if you do, you'll know what to do!