Anyone can experience the frustrating scenario of being locked out of their car. It can be brought on by a number of things, including leaving your keys in the car, having a key fob malfunction, having your locks damaged, or even losing your key. But how typical is this situation? Over 4 million Americans lock themselves out of their cars each year, according to an American Automobile Association (AAA) poll.
The survey also showed that lockouts are a frequent event for many people, with 20% of drivers reporting having experienced one at least once in their lifetime. This can be more than just a little inconvenience; it can also pose a risk to your safety, particularly if it takes place in a strange or rural area.
The best course of action in a lockout is to call a reputable locksmith for assistance. However, not all states mandate that locksmiths need a license in order to practice. For instance, Florida mandates that locksmiths hold a license before they can work there. The same is true for Ohio, where the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing requires locksmiths to receive a license. In contrast, locksmiths in Iowa are not required to hold a license, but they are still required to register with the state and post a bond.
The price to pick a lock will vary depending on the kind of lock and how complicated the issue is. If the situation is a straightforward lockout, the price to open the door can run from $50 to $100. The price could increase to $200 or more, though, if the lock needs to be repaired or replaced. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, it is generally good to receive a price quote before hiring a locksmith.
To sum up, getting locked out of a car may happen to anyone and happens frequently in the US. The best course of action in this situation is to call a qualified locksmith, but it’s crucial to confirm that they meet the state’s licensing standards. Before hiring a locksmith, it is generally important to receive an estimate because the cost of breaking a lock might vary depending on the circumstances.
Locksmiths offer a variety of lock and key-related services, including lock repair and replacement, key duplication, security system installation, and emergency lockout services for homes, businesses, and automobiles. They might also provide further services like key programming and cutting, safe installation and repair, and security advice.