What to Do If You Locked Yourself Out of Your Car
Most car owners have locked themselves out of their vehicles at some time or another. It can be terrifying and difficult, but there are steps you can take to fix it.
Instead of panicking, try to stay calm and think through all of your options before making a snap decision. You may have assistance for roadside emergencies with an insurance or credit card policy that could help you out.
1. Lock the doors
The first thing you must do in case you've locked yourself out of your car is to make sure the doors are all locked. A lot of people forget things when they're in a rush The first thing you'd like to do is spend all your time trying to unlock a door that's not locked in the first place!
Check that all windows are shut. Many people who have their windows locked out of their vehicle forget to close the windows behind them. This could cause a huge issue in the future!
It's also an excellent idea to inform your friends and family be aware that you're locked out of your car. So, they'll be capable of keeping an eye out for you and help you out in a pinch. If you are buying a new car it is recommended to keep spare keys in a safe location. This will help you avoid getting locked out of your car in the future.
You can utilize one of the methods mentioned above to gain entry into your vehicle. You can, for example employ a screwdriver and a rod to pry open the lock. Another alternative is to straighten the hanger of a coat and slide it between the window and the weatherstripping in order to pull up the locking mechanism. There are inflatable wedge kits specifically designed for this.
You must be aware that in some situations, you cannot wait for someone to unlock the door. If you have a pet or a kid trapped in your car, you might not want to wait for help to rescue them.
2. Help is available
Being locked out of your vehicle can be a stressful and upsetting experience. But if you remain calm and seek help, it doesn't have to ruin your day.
When you realize you've locked yourself out of your car, first survey the situation to determine if it is an emergency. If your vehicle is in a dangerous area, such as near railroad tracks or in an area with a high rate of crime it may be difficult to determine if it is an emergency. If you are able, call 911 to inform them that there is a pet or child in the vehicle and that you require their assistance.
If you can't contact someone immediately, ask for assistance from others. You may be able to open your car's door with the assistance of a friend or family member, or they may have an extra set of keys they can leave with you. Alternately, you can attempt to break the window, but this isn't recommended since it could be risky and costly, particularly if the windows are made of safety glass.
It's recommended to keep the phone number of an Gainesville locksmith on hand in the event that you lose your keys inside your house one day. You can get a professional to assist you in a matter of minutes.
If you're part of a roadside assistance program, like AAA, it's a good idea to have their number in your pocket, too. Many of these companies provide 24/7 support, and have professionals available to help in lockout situations. They can usually get you into your vehicle without causing damage to it. They're well worth the call. Think about using keychains to will make your keys more visible.
3. Find an extra key
Keep an extra car key in case you need to ensure you are not locked out. It might appear to be a hassle, but it's much cheaper than calling a tow truck or locksmith! Keep an extra key in your purse or wallet, or even in a magnetic key holder that you can attach to the side of your vehicle. You could also invest in a kit with inflatable wedges and tools that extend far to open a locked vehicle.
Another alternative is to ask a friend or family member to bring your spare key when you're away from home. This only works in cases where they're within driving distance, but it can save you time and money during an emergency lockout.
It's also a good idea to swap keys with friends or roommates every month, so that you don't wear down the primary key as fast. This method is especially beneficial for those who live in an area with lots of snow because the cold winter weather can speed up key wear and wear and tear.
It's never a good feeling to lose your keys, but it happens to everyone. Stay calm and make an action plan in case you are in the same situation. Remember that there are plenty of tools and techniques to assist you in getting back in your vehicle, including a Slim Jim or other tool, inflatable wedges or a bobby pin or a coat hanger made of wire. It may take a few tries but don't give up! eventually you'll be able unlock your door. Just be sure to check all the doors, especially if believe you've locked yourself out of the back window.
4. Call for roadside assistance
A car that is locked can be a frustrating and terrifying situation, especially when you have pets or children in the. There are a variety of ways to gain access to your car, including calling roadside assistance and getting an extra.
First, you must remain calm and consider all your options. This will allow you to avoid making decisions that are too quick and stop you from taking rash actions that could be dangerous for you or anyone else. Also, make sure that you don't put an additional key in a hidden spot outside your home as it could be a great way for thieves to track it down it. It is safer to leave a spare key with a neighbor or a family member, and to look over your car before you leave.
If you have a newer vehicle that has keyless entry, it may be easier to get back into your car. If you're driving an older car you'll have to look at other methods. Many gas stations can help you with this as they typically have tools that can open your door without harm. One example involves using a long hook to open the lock. You could also use the shoelace.
If you have keys that are in the ignition, or if you suspect someone is trapped inside your car, call 911 immediately. Depending on the situation an officer from the police force or fire department may be able to open the door of your car. If you need help, call a locksmith. Make sure you keep the contact number of a local business in your pocket, as it may take some time for them to get in touch with you.
5. Call locked out of car service is your best option when you're locked out of your car and cannot access it using any other means. Locksmiths specialize in unlocking cars, which means they can do it quickly and efficiently. They can also assist you to prevent future lockouts, by installing alarms and giving guidance on the best security measures for your vehicle.
Make sure that all doors are locked and your keys have been locked prior to calling for assistance. It's easy to lose a key in your car, especially when you're not paying attention or are rushed as you exit. Checking each door can save you a lot of trouble in the future.
Roadside assistance services such as AAA are also useful in the event that you are stuck in your car. They are usually on the scene in just a few minutes and have kits specifically created for this type of situation. You can also call an auto locksmith near you to get assistance quickly and a majority of them provide 24/7 emergency services.
If you're unable to get into your car it is recommended to wait for help in a safe area. If you are able, find a place where passersby won't think you're the robber or burglar.
Being locked out of your car can be a huge inconvenience. But if you keep an extra key, adhere to proper securing guidelines and don't rush as you enter and exit your vehicle, it's unlikely that this will happen to you frequently. If it does, though do not panic - there are plenty of solutions that can help you solve the issue and get back to your normal routine!