Whether you’re in your driveway or a parking lot, locking your keys in the car can ruin your plans for the day. In this situation, many car owners make choices that will only worsen the situation. Instead of fiddling with your car door locks, learn more about what you should and shouldn’t do when you’re locked out of the car.

Do:

Assess your safety.

It’s important that you know that you’re safe. If you’re locked out near an active street or in a dark parking lot at night, it may be best to dial 911. Police may be able to unlock the vehicle for you, or at the very least, wait with you until assistance arrives. Move to a well-lit area away from traffic. Gas stations, shopping centers, and residential streets are all safe waiting areas.

Call roadside assistance.

If you’re a member of AAA, or if your auto insurance provides free roadside assistance, contact a representative as soon as possible. You can then call a mobile locksmith to open the door. If you’re locked out of your car and have lost the key, contact a towing service that can take you to a spare key or move your vehicle to the shop.

Don’t:

Try to pry the door open.

Trying to pry the door open with a crowbar or another tool will cause serious damage to your car. Doors aren’t meant to open this way, and you may end up requiring automotive repairs as a result of your efforts.

Waste time with a wire coat hanger.

Using a wire coat hanger to disengage the door lock is rarely effective and should be avoided. This method can scratch your car’s windows and exterior paint when you try to slide the wire through the door. Once inside, you may also puncture the seats or damage other parts of the interior. Save yourself the time and effort and wait for a professional locksmith service to let you in.

If you find yourself locked out in Morris, Sussex, or Warren County in New Jersey, contact Able Security Locksmiths. These professionals provide 24/7 service for residential, commercial, and auto clients. They can pick or replace door locks, install new locks in your home, or provide general lock repairs—all of which you can explore further on their website. Call (973) 584-3033 to schedule service.