It’s a common mishap that can happen to anyone. Whether you’re running late for an important meeting, heading out to the grocery store, or just trying to get home in time for dinner with the family, getting locked out of your car is a frustrating experience that can feel like the end of the world. But instead of panicking or trying to force your way in, it’s best to remain calm and call a professional.
A locksmith is a trained professional that can quickly open your car and regain access without damaging the vehicle or creating an unsafe situation. They use a variety of tools and techniques to open vehicles without breaking the window, so you don’t have to risk injuring yourself or making the situation worse.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may be able to download an app that will allow you to unlock your car with a mobile phone or computer. Many automakers now offer these apps with their cars, so check with your manufacturer to see if you can find one that works for your specific vehicle.
You can also use a shoestring to open your vehicle’s lock, or try the coat hanger trick that you’ve probably seen in movies. But remember that prying open the space more than a quarter inch can be dangerous, and could result in voiding your warranty protection.
Another option is to call a roadside assistance club, but you’ll often be on hold for long periods of time, and you may have to wait even longer for help since your “emergency” isn’t theirs. A better option is HONK, the pay-on-demand roadside assistance app that provides service for both major and minor car emergencies, including car lockouts. HONK is dedicated to transparency, and we show you your guaranteed not-to-exceed service charge quote in the app before your help arrives.
If you’re not a member, simply open the app and enter your location. Then type in your description, such as “car locked out.” HONK will find nearby service providers and send them your details. Once your help is on the way, you can track their progress, chat with them directly through the app, and get back to your day.
Fleets can also use a mobile phone to contact an emergency response service for truck lockouts. They can then request a locksmith to unlock their trucks with minimal downtime and disruption to their operations, while maintaining compliance with OSHA standards.
Fleet operators should always review their standard operating procedures for vehicle lockouts and other hazardous energy safety concerns, to ensure they continue to abide by industry and federal standards. In addition, they should periodically check that their LOTO procedures are up to date and reflect any changes or updates in technology and operating conditions. For example, if they use a new truck that requires an electronic ignition system, they should update their LOTO procedure to incorporate the additional steps required.