Getting locked out of your car is frustrating, especially when you’re in a rush, it’s late at night, or the weather is bad. In moments of stress, some drivers consider the drastic option: breaking a window to get back inside. While it might seem like a quick solution, breaking a car window is a costly, dangerous, and often unnecessary mistake. Today, we at Highway 30 Garage would like to stress why you should never break a window during a car lockout, and what to do instead.
Replacing a Car Window is More Expensive than You Think
Replacing a car window is not cheap. Depending on the type of vehicle and which window you break, the cost can range from $200 to over $1,000. That doesn’t include any interior damage from flying glass or water exposure after the fact. In contrast, a professional roadside lockout service typically costs a fraction of that, usually between $50 and $150.
You Could Get Injured Breaking a Glass Car Window
Breaking glass without proper tools or training is dangerous. Shards of glass can fly into your eyes, cut your hands, or even cause deep wounds. You might also slip and fall if you’re applying force with your foot or an object. Injuries not only put your health at risk but also add to your expenses with medical bills.
Breaking a Window Can Damage Your Car
Besides the window itself, breaking glass can scratch the paint, tear the upholstery, or damage electronic components inside your vehicle. Cars are not designed to be forcibly opened this way. A single attempt to “save time” could end up requiring extensive, and expensive, repairs.
Legal Issues May Arise from Busting Your Car Window
In some cases, breaking your own car window might look suspicious to law enforcement or passersby. If someone reports the incident, you could find yourself trying to explain your actions to the police. Worse, if you’re trying to access a rental, borrowed, or company vehicle, the damage could lead to legal or financial consequences.
Better Auto Lockout Alternatives are Just a Call Away
The best solution to a lockout is to call a professional roadside assistance service. Trained technicians have the tools and experience to unlock your car safely, without damage. Most providers offer 24/7 service and arrive quickly, especially in urban and suburban areas.
Towing, Roadside Assistance & More in Cassia, Gooding, Jerome & Twin Falls Counties in Magic Valley, Idaho & Jackpot, Northern Nevada
If you’re in a remote location or worried about safety, let the dispatcher know so they can prioritize your situation. In emergencies, such as a child or pet locked inside, a 911 call may be the right move. First responders are trained to handle these urgent situations with the right equipment. Car lockouts are stressful, but breaking a window is rarely the right choice. The risks to your safety, your vehicle, and your wallet far outweigh the temporary relief of getting inside quickly. Next time you’re locked out, resist the urge to take matters into your own hands. Instead, contact a professional auto lockout service that can get you back on the road safely and efficiently. Contact Highway 30 Garage if you are in need of auto lockouts and other services in Twin Falls, ID and surrounding areas.
