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Locking your keys inside your car isn’t a fun experience. Not only will it most likely throw off your schedule for the day, but it can also be expensive to get your car unlocked again. There are multiple options for getting help when you lock your keys in your car. Here are a few to consider before you decide what to do.
Call Someone Who Has a Spare Key
It’s always a good idea to make sure you have at least one spare key for your vehicle. It’s even better to have more than one spare key so you can store one in your home or office (whichever is easiest to access in an emergency) and leave another one with a trusted individual you can rely on to help you out in case you lose your key or lock it in your car. The only cost for this method is the initial amount you pay for the spare keys. You may want to offer gas money to the individual who brings you your spare key to show your appreciation for helping you out. Of course, this method of unlocking your vehicle will only work if you’re within close driving distance of the person who has your spare key. If you’re out of town, this will most likely not be a feasible option.
Call AAA
If you have a AAA membership, you can call them to help you unlock your vehicle. This usually means they’ll send one of their partner locksmiths to your location. The cost for this service depends on how much the locksmith charges and what kind of membership you have. Usually you’ll have to pay the locksmith yourself at the time of service, and then AAA will reimburse you for part or all of that amount. Of course, not everyone has a AAA membership, so you may have to consider other options to get your car unlocked.
Call Your Insurance Company
Depending on your auto insurance San Diego policy, locksmith services may be covered. To find out for sure if your insurance policy includes this, simply call your insurance agent and ask. If locksmith services are covered, you may need to use a locksmith the insurance company has approved or partnered with. Of course, if the insurance company’s locksmith isn’t available when you need him or her, you’ll need to wait until he or she is available or go with a different locksmith, and you may have to pay out of pocket for the service.
Call an Independent Locksmith
Of course, you can skip all the options listed above and go straight to calling an independent locksmith to get your keys out of your car. This may be the most expensive option, though. If you call on a weekend, outside regular business hours, or during a particularly busy time, you may be charged extra. If your car is a model that’s difficult to get into, you may also find yourself paying more for the service. If possible, make calling an independent locksmith your last option. Exhaust the other possibilities first.
It’s important to plan ahead for inconveniences such as locking yourself out of your car, and it’s even more critical to make sure you have reliable insurance for your vehicle. If you need affordable business insurance , motorcycle insurance, home insurance, or auto insurance in Chula Vista , call the experienced team at Altra Insurance Services. For a free quote, reach out to us today at 619-474-6666.