What to Do if I Lock My Keys Inside the Car During the Night
Locking your keys inside your car at night is one of those frustrating situations that can happen to anyone. Whether you’re coming back from a late-night drive, picking up groceries, or just heading to your car in the dark, finding yourself locked out of your vehicle can be incredibly stressful. But don’t panic – there are several steps you can take to solve this problem quickly and efficiently, without having to break the bank. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you lock your keys inside your car during the night, and how roadside assistance services can help you out of this sticky situation.
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1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing to remember is to stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation more stressful. Take a few deep breaths and assess your surroundings. Are you in a safe location? Is there a place nearby where you can wait while help arrives? If you're parked in an unsafe area, try to move your car to a safer spot if possible, before making any calls for help.
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2. Check If You Have a Spare Key
Before you start calling for help, check if you have access to a spare key. Many drivers carry spare keys in their wallets, purses, or even hidden somewhere on the car. If you do have a spare, you can avoid the need for costly professional assistance and simply let yourself back into your car. However, this isn't always the case for every driver, so don’t worry if you can’t find one – there are plenty of other options available to get you out of your bind.
3. Call a Roadside Assistance Service
If you’re unable to access a spare key, your next best option is to call a professional roadside assistance service. Many car insurance policies and auto clubs offer 24/7 roadside assistance services that can help you with lockouts, among other emergencies. A trained technician can unlock your car without damaging it. This is often the fastest and safest solution, especially if you find yourself locked out in the middle of the night.
In many cases, roadside assistance companies can send out a tow truck equipped with lockout tools to unlock your car. The process is usually quick, with many services able to arrive within 30 minutes to an hour. Additionally, some companies offer mobile apps, making it easy to request a tow or roadside assistance service in just a few taps.
4. What Happens if You Can’t Wait for Help?
Sometimes, waiting for roadside assistance just isn’t an option, especially if you're in a hurry or if you’re stuck in a dangerous or remote location. In these cases, there are a few DIY options you can try:
4.1. Use a Lockout Tool (If You Have One)
There are lockout kits available that contain tools to help you unlock your car without damaging it. If you happen to have one, you can attempt to use a "slim jim" or other lockout tools to open the door. However, this requires some expertise and can potentially cause damage to your vehicle if done incorrectly. It’s best to only attempt this if you’re experienced with lockout tools.
4.2. Try the Coat Hanger Trick (If You're Desperate)
In desperate situations, some drivers have resorted to using a wire coat hanger to unlock their car. This method involves bending the hanger into a hook and attempting to unlock the car door. However, this is an unreliable and potentially damaging method. Attempting this can damage the door seals, or worse, set off the airbags. We don’t recommend this unless you have no other options, and even then, it’s worth thinking carefully before proceeding.
5. Real-Life Case Study: How Roadside Assistance Saved the Day
One of our clients, Sarah, recently faced the classic scenario of locking her keys inside her car in the middle of the night. After realizing her mistake, she quickly called a roadside assistance service provided by her car insurance company. Within 45 minutes, a technician arrived, unlocking the car using professional tools without causing any damage. Sarah was able to resume her plans without any further hassle. This is a perfect example of how reliable and timely roadside assistance can be a lifesaver when you're in a jam.
6. Why You Should Always Have Roadside Assistance
Many drivers underestimate the importance of having roadside assistance services until they are in a situation like this. The peace of mind that comes from knowing help is just a phone call away can make all the difference in stressful situations. Whether it's for a lockout, flat tire, dead battery, or other emergency, having a roadside assistance plan can save you time, stress, and potentially money in the long run.
7. The Benefits of Signing Up for Roadside Assistance
If you’re still on the fence about roadside assistance, consider these advantages:
- 24/7 Availability: No matter when or where you need help, roadside assistance is available round-the-clock.
- Cost-Effective: Many roadside assistance plans are affordable and can be added to your existing car insurance or auto club membership.
- Expert Help: Professionals are trained to safely unlock your car without causing damage, providing peace of mind.
- Additional Services: Roadside assistance often includes other services, such as fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, and tire changes.
8. How to Choose the Right Roadside Assistance Plan
When selecting a roadside assistance provider, consider the following factors:
- Coverage Area: Ensure that the service covers your location, including remote or rural areas where you might drive.
- Response Time: Look for a company that promises fast response times, especially in emergencies.
- Customer Support: Choose a provider with good customer service that you can rely on in stressful situations.
- Plan Options: Some plans offer more services than others, so choose one that meets your needs.
9. Conclusion: How to Avoid Future Lockouts
While locking your keys inside your car can happen to anyone, there are ways to minimize the chances of it happening in the future. Consider getting a spare key made, using a keyless entry system, or storing a backup key in a secure location. By taking these small steps, you can avoid the stress and hassle of being locked out again. And if you ever find yourself locked out again, remember that roadside assistance services are always available to help.
Need reliable roadside assistance services? Don't wait until you're locked out to consider it! Contact us today to learn more about our affordable plans, and keep your car running smoothly no matter what life throws your way.
