You’re at the end of a long day, eager to get home, and arrive at your car… only to find it locked with the keys inside. Sooner or later, it happens to everyone. What’s important is not to panic or stress out, but to prepare yourself to be able to assess and respond to the situation intelligently.
So, what do you do if you lock your keys in the car? Read on to discover 5 different solutions.
1. Call 911
If you find yourself locked out of your car in any potentially hazardous environment, your best bet and first step should be to call 911. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be dangerous, while parking lots and driveways are typically safe. Check your surroundings and move away from your vehicle if necessary. A quick call to 911 will send the police on their way to take care of the situation and help you unlock or tow away your car.
2. Call 411 for Towing Services
Call directory assistance at 411 for towing services in your area, or contact your local towing company. Towing companies can help with lock-out services to get you back into your car in no time. To prepare for this eventuality, check in advance to see if your insurance policy provides coverage for towing costs.
3. Pay For Roadside Assistance Service
Invest in roadside assistance service if you’re prone to forgetting your keys or just want some extra security while on the road. Roadside assistance service can get you in speedy contact with locksmiths, mechanics, and tow trucks in your area. In addition to opening locked cars, roadside assistance can also help with dead batteries, empty gas tanks, flat tires, and more. It’s a quick and low-effort solution to all your vehicular problems. Check with your car insurance company, dealer, or vehicle manufacturer for roadside assistance deals and features.
4. Contact a Locksmith
Find out what automotive locksmiths are in your area to save yourself stress down the road. You can keep the number saved in your phone or jotted down on a piece of paper in your wallet. A professional locksmith will be able to get your car open for you in short order, without the extra costs that roadside assistance service may incur.
5. Keep a Spare Key
Prepare for the worst beforehand and get a spare key to your car. You can stash it in your wallet or purse, or install a magnetic key box on the underside of your vehicle. Alternatively, you can keep it in a secure place in your home or office. If you are not in immediate danger or a rush, call for a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor to fetch it for you and help open your car. Stay calm and think smart; a locked car with keys inside may be a stressful situation, but help is on the way.