Locked Keys in Car - How to Get Help
More than 4 million Americans face this nightmare every year. Even with the most modern technology, like smart keys, it's possible to prevent yourself from entering your vehicle.
There are several ways to get inside your car without damaging your vehicle. Stay calm and assess your situation.
Call a Locksmith
It can be stressful if you lock your car keys inside. It is essential to remain calm and figure out ways to get back inside. You could ask a friend to assist you or call a roadside service. It is best to call a locksmith so that you don't harm your vehicle.
There are a myriad of reasons you may lock your keys inside the car. You may have omitted to move the key when you sat down for a conversation or left it in the ignition. Call a locksmith to open your vehicle without causing damage to it.
A professional locksmith will be able to offer tips on how to avoid the same problem from occurring again. They can also provide suggestions on how to secure your keys and provide an option to unlock your car in an emergency situation if needed.
Always have a spare set in your car. This will enable you to quickly access your car in the event of an emergency. It is far more secure than trying to break a glass to access the car.
It is also a good idea to consult your auto insurance provider regarding roadside assistance, as this could help in resolving the situation in case you find yourself locked out of the vehicle. Some companies offer this service as a part of their policy, whereas others charge fees.
Contact a Tow truck
One of the most awful things that could happen to you is locking your keys inside your car. It can be a very stressful and frustrating experience, but it is essential to remain calm and keep in mind that there are actions you can take to help yourself.
G28 Car Keys is first important to check and make sure that you have locked your keys inside the car. It is not unusual to lose keys out of purses or pocket as you exit your vehicle. You may not notice it until you get back into it later. If this is the case, you should call a tow truck.
You can also call your local police. However, this isn't always the best option because a police officer's primary concern is public safety and your car lockout does not typically qualify as an emergency. You can call an emergency number and explain the situation, but they are likely to suggest you contact roadside assistance or locksmith.
A great way to avoid getting locked out of your car in the future is to keep a spare key in a place which you can easily access. It could be a wallet or purse, or an electronic key box that can be placed on the bottom of your car. You can leave an extra key with a friend or family member or join an emergency roadside assistance program that offers car lockout coverage.
If you find yourself locked out, do not attempt to unlock your car with tools like a hammer or coat hanger. This can damage your car and cause you to pay two emergency callout bills.
Contact Roadside Assistance
If you are unable to get back in your vehicle and do not want to risk causing further damage to your vehicle call roadside assistance a good option. It may cost a bit more than calling a locksmith, but the peace of mind that a professional can help you get back in your car is well worth it.
A roadside service person will be able to use various tools to pop open a lock. If needed, they will also cut a key for you. They also can refuel and offer other services, such as jumpstarting dead batteries. It's always a good idea to make sure you have an extra key kept in a secure location at home or at work. You don't have to be concerned about being locked out a second time.
Some car insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of their policies. Find out in your policy out if it includes the lockout service. If so then they'll usually cover the full cost of unlocking your vehicle. They'll usually exclude coverage for pets or children in the car, as well as other services that require more advanced tools, such as a key fob replacement.
If you don't have roadside assistance, most locksmiths and towing companies can assist you in getting your keys out of the car. You can also contact your local police department to receive assistance. It's important to remember that 911 is intended for emergencies and the police will only take your call if they believe that your or someone else's life is in danger.
Contact a Friend
Getting locked out of your vehicle can be extremely frustrating. Even the most careful drivers can be caught in this scenario. 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 spare keys in their home or with a trusted family member in case of emergency. This is a convenient option, but it's not 100% secure. You may lose it or forget where you put it. It's best to avoid this situation completely by storing an extra key somewhere that you or a third party can easily access. You can, for instance place the key in the magnetic box that is under your car. Another option is to leave your key with a family member in your neighborhood.
You could be able to use the services provided by a service club, or auto-insurance company if you have locked your keys in your vehicle. These service providers have a network that can help you. They may be able to unlock your vehicle without damaging the lock.
If you don't have an extra key, you may ask the police for help. They might be able to get you back in your vehicle by breaking a window or using a slim jim to open the door. This option should be reserved for emergencies. It's also costly and risky and the police are likely to consider your vehicle an opportunity for thieves. It is recommended to contact roadside assistance.
Contact the police
Everyone has been in this predicament at some moment in time. It's frustrating, but it's also not a big deal, and you can get out of this situation quickly with a little planning. It's a good idea keep an extra key in your bag, keep it in a safe place (not the back of the seat or in the pockets of your coat) and leave it with a trusted person.
In some cases it is necessary to notify authorities if you've locked your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're in a dangerous environment like a busy road or an unfamiliar parking lot in the night. In this case the police are likely to cut a window to help you to get out. It can be expensive, but it is worth it to ensure your security.
However most of the time it is best to call a tow truck or locksmith, rather than the police. The police are paid by taxpayers and should utilize their resources to tackle criminality, not to help with personal issues. Most police departments also have a policy prohibiting officers from unlocking cars on the spot for free.
Make sure to check all doors before leaving your vehicle to avoid getting locked out. Double-check your keys before you leave. It's easy to forget or get distracted in the midst of a rush. It is also advisable to keep an extra key on hand and it's a great idea to have roadside assistance coverage through your insurance company or AAA. You'll probably never need it however, if you do you'll be prepared!