What to Do if You’re Locked Out of Your Vehicle: Roadside Assistance Explained

September 10, 2025

It’s a moment of panic many drivers know all too well—you reach for your car door, only to realize your keys are inside. Whether you’re running late, standing in a parking lot, or stranded on the roadside, getting locked out of your vehicle is frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, this common mishap doesn’t have to ruin your day. Modern roadside assistance services are equipped to handle lockouts quickly and efficiently. From professional tools to trained technicians, help is often just a phone call away. Knowing what to do next can save you time, stress, and potential damage to your vehicle. That’s where roadside assistance comes in—and here’s how it works.

1. What Is Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is a service designed to help drivers with common issues like dead batteries, flat tires, fuel delivery, and of course, vehicle lockouts. When you contact a roadside service provider, they dispatch a trained technician who can unlock your car using specialized tools, all while ensuring there’s no damage to your vehicle.

2. Immediate Steps to Take

If you find yourself locked out, the first thing to do is assess your situation. Are you in a safe location? If so, stay near your vehicle and avoid attempting to force the door open, as this can damage your locks or windows. If you’re in a high-traffic or unsafe area, move to a secure location nearby and call for assistance right away.

3. Who to Call

While some people may try to call a friend or use a coat hanger, these DIY methods are risky and often ineffective. The best step is to contact a trusted roadside assistance provider like MPA Towing & Recovery. Their trained technicians have the tools and experience to unlock vehicles of all makes and models quickly and safely.

4. Additional Services That May Help

Many roadside providers, including MPA Towing & Recovery, offer more than just lockout assistance. If your lockout occurred due to lost keys or a dead battery, they can often assist with towing, battery jumpstarts, or connecting you to a locksmith. This all-in-one service approach ensures you're covered, no matter the reason behind your lockout.

5. Preventative Measures for the Future

While roadside assistance can save the day, prevention is still important. Consider keeping a spare key in a safe, accessible place or using a key-tracking device. Some modern vehicles also offer remote unlock features via smartphone apps—worth exploring if you want extra peace of mind.

Why Choose MPA Towing & Recovery When You're Locked Out

When you're stranded due to a lockout, trust MPA Towing & Recovery to get you moving again. With Over a decade of experience in the Bordentown and Hamilton areas of New Jersey, their roadside assistance team is known for fast response, professionalism, and customer-first service. Whether it's a lockout, flat tire, or emergency towing, MPA has the tools and expertise to handle your situation safely and efficiently. When the unexpected happens, call us—your reliable partner on the road.

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