Drivers Call Out Over Key Problems

Research has shown that more than 20,000 drivers made a call out for help over problems with car keys in 2009.

Insurance company Green Flag said many drivers saw keys jam or break in locks frozen by the snow and ice of December.

However, the main problem came from absent-minded drivers locking their keys inside their car. The more weather-related issues of jammed and broken keys came close behind.

Green Flag head Dan Robinson said: "Locking keys in the car is not only frustrating, it can be dangerous too. Young children can often find themselves inside the car with parents or guardians looking in, hoping they don't nudge the handbrake or get hurt. We prioritise any calls where children are at risk and our highly skilled technicians are able to get into a car within a matter of minutes.

"After locking your keys in the car, the next most common key call-out is jammed keys in the ignition barrel or locks. December saw the highest volume of keys broken or snapped. It is important you don't force your key into the barrel if the lock is iced over or feels stiff."