Posted on June 21st, 2023.

Being locked out of your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience. It always seems to happen at the most inconvenient times, leaving you stranded and unsure of what to do next. Before you reach for your phone to call a locksmith, there are a few things you can try to save time, money, and potentially get back on the road faster.

In this blog post, we'll explore seven essential things you need to consider before making that locksmith call.

What to Do before Calling a locksmith if you Are Locked out of your Car

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

When you find yourself locked out of your car, the first thing you need to do is stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse and cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Check for spare keys: Do you have a spare key hidden somewhere? Maybe you left one with a trusted friend or family member. Before calling a locksmith, make sure you've exhausted all possibilities of finding a spare key.
• Evaluate the environment: Take a look around your surroundings. Are you in a safe area? Is there anyone nearby who might be able to help? Assessing the situation can help you determine if you need immediate assistance or if it's safe to explore other options.

2. Contact Roadside Assistance

If you have a roadside assistance membership or insurance coverage that includes it, now is the time to make that call. Many insurance providers offer roadside assistance as part of their packages, so it's worth checking if you have this service available. Roadside assistance can often provide quick and affordable solutions, such as:

Lockout services

Some roadside assistance programs include locksmith services as part of their offerings. They may be able to dispatch a professional locksmith to help you regain access to your car.

Towing services

If your car is not drivable or the lockout issue can't be resolved quickly, a tow truck can transport your vehicle to a trusted service center or your preferred locksmith.

3. Seek Help from Passersby

In certain situations, you might be lucky enough to have a Good Samaritan come to your rescue. While this approach may not be applicable in all scenarios, it's worth a try if you find yourself locked out of your car.

4. Assess the Urgency

After considering the previous sections, it's essential to evaluate the urgency of the situation. Ask yourself the following questions:

Safety concerns

If you're in an unsafe area or there's a potential risk to your well-being, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and contact professional help immediately.

Time sensitivity

Consider the time of day, weather conditions, and any other factors that might affect your decision-making process. If waiting for help could put you in a vulnerable position, it might be best to seek assistance promptly.

5. Have a Proof of Car Ownership at Hand

When it comes to unlocking your car, one important factor to consider is proof of car ownership. While it may seem like an additional hassle, providing proof of ownership is necessary to ensure that the locksmith or roadside assistance service is acting responsibly and ethically. Any of these can work:

• Vehicle registration
• Driver's license
• Insurance documents

By having these documents prepared and accessible, you demonstrate your responsibility as a vehicle owner and make the unlocking process smoother and more efficient.

6. Choose a Professional Locksmith

If all else fails or you're dealing with a complex lockout situation, it's time to reach out to a professional locksmith. When selecting a locksmith, keep the following tips in mind:

• Research and reviews: Look for reputable locksmiths in your area. Read reviews from previous customers to ensure they have a track record of providing reliable and trustworthy services.
• Verify credentials: Confirm that the locksmith is licensed, insured, and bonded. This information indicates their professionalism and dedication to their craft.
• Get a clear estimate: Before agreeing to any services, ask for a detailed estimate that includes all potential costs, such as service fees, labor, and any additional charges for late-night or emergency calls.

Conclusion

Getting locked out of your car is undoubtedly a frustrating experience, but it doesn't have to ruin your day. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can increase your chances of resolving the situation efficiently and getting back on track. Remember to stay calm, assess your options, and consider alternative solutions before calling a locksmith.

If you find yourself locked out and in need of assistance, RoadAngel is here to help. With our mobile-based towing, car unlock, flat tire, jumpstart, fuel delivery, key/battery/tire replacement services, we can provide the prompt and reliable support you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at 214-998-3998 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.