Timely cargo deliveries are necessary for trucking professionals, so they can’t afford any costly delays while out on the road. That includes waiting for a towing company to perform lockout recovery services because the keys are locked in the rig. You can avoid this unfortunate situation by following these helpful tips.

How to Avoid Truck Lockouts

1. Create a Habit

To avoid needing help from a towing company, follow a simple routine that involves checking for essentials like keys, wallet, and cellphone whenever exiting the truck. Only close and lock the door once all items are accounted for. Doing this repeatedly will make it a habit that becomes second nature and help you associate all three items as one unit of essentials that you’ll never forget to have on you at all times.

2. Lock It From the Outside

Don’t lock the truck using the button on the inside of the door. Instead, always use the key to lock it from the outside after exiting the vehicle. While this takes slightly longer, it ensures that the keys won’t be left inside of the locked vehicle.

3. Wear a Lanyard

Lanyards are necklaces with small hooks that attach to keys, and they help prevent lockouts that require a towing company to fix. The key is much more noticeable when it’s attached to a colorful lanyard, so drivers are more likely to notice it’s still in the vehicle when exiting. Plus, they get used to wearing the necklace and will be reminded of the key when they don’t feel it.

4. Keep a Spare Handy

Before hauling any cargo, make sure there is at least one spare key on the journey. If you want to keep it on you, place it in a pocket or the wallet at the start of each day.

There are also magnetic lockboxes that can hold the spare and be attached to the truck itself. Lock the key inside the container and hide it in an accessible area that also keeps it out of sight. Recommended areas include on the undercarriage, under the wheel well, or on the interior of the license plate.

 

If you experience a lockout while on the job, contact Buckeye Riverside Towing in Cincinnati, OH. As a reliable towing company that serves the Tri-State area, they have the lockout and towing accessories needed to get you back into the truck and on the road quickly. They offer 24-hour towing and lockout services, so they can assist whenever the lockout occurs. Learn more about their affordable towing options by calling (513) 244-7200 or browse all of their services online.