Out of Fuel or Locked Out? Roadside Assistance Help

Out of Fuel or Locked Out? Roadside Assistance Help

Nabil FarhanNabil Farhan· · 4 min read
Last reviewed

Running out of petrol or locking your keys inside your car can happen when you least expect it. Some roadside assistance packages can help with emergency fuel delivery or vehicle unlocking, but these services are not included in every plan.

If you find yourself in either situation, knowing what to do and which benefits to check can help you get back on the road safely.

What Should You Do If You Run Out of Petrol?

If your car runs out of petrol, avoid stopping in the middle of the road or in a dangerous location.

Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Move to a safe place: If the car is still moving, try to reach a safe parking area or the emergency lane. Do not attempt to drive further if it puts you at risk.
  2. Switch on your hazard lights: Make your vehicle visible to other road users, especially if it stops on the roadside.
  3. Stay in a safe location: If you are on a highway, follow road safety instructions and move behind the safety barrier when it is safe to do so.
  4. Contact roadside assistance: Check whether your insurance or roadside assistance package provides emergency fuel delivery.

If you are stranded on a highway, you can also contact the highway operator for help. For PLUS-operated highways, call PLUSLine at 1-800-88-0000.

For more highway safety advice, read our guide on what to do if your car breaks down on the highway.

Can Roadside Assistance Deliver Petrol?

Yes, some roadside assistance services offer emergency fuel delivery when your car runs out of petrol.

However, fuel delivery does not always mean the petrol is free. Depending on your provider and package, the service may cover the delivery while you pay for the fuel supplied.

Before requesting help, check:

  • Whether emergency fuel delivery is included in your package.
  • How much fuel the service can provide.
  • Whether there is a delivery limit or additional charge.
  • Whether you need to pay for the petrol separately.

For example, some services provide only a small amount of fuel to help you reach the nearest petrol station. This is an emergency service, not a full fuel refill.

You can also check the VIP Road Assist benefits to understand which roadside assistance services may be available through BJAK.

What Should You Do If You Lock Your Keys Inside Your Car?

Getting locked out of your car can be frustrating, especially when your keys are still inside.

Before trying to open the door yourself, consider these steps:

  1. Check all doors: Make sure every door and the boot are locked. Another entry point may still be accessible.
  2. Check for a spare key: If someone has a spare key nearby, arranging for them to bring it may be the simplest option.
  3. Contact roadside assistance: Ask whether your package includes vehicle unlocking or locksmith services.
  4. Avoid forcing the door: Using tools to open the car yourself may damage the door, window or locking system.

If a child or pet is trapped inside the vehicle, especially in hot weather, treat it as an emergency and contact emergency services immediately.

Does Roadside Assistance Cover Vehicle Lockouts?

Some roadside assistance packages include vehicle unlocking or locksmith assistance, but this benefit is not automatically available with every plan.

The type of help also depends on the provider. For example, a service may arrange assistance to unlock the vehicle, while another may exclude locksmith charges.

Before requesting help, check whether your package covers:

ItemWhat to check
Vehicle unlockingWhether the service can help when keys are locked inside
Locksmith chargesWhether the cost of hiring a locksmith is included
Service limitsWhether there are limits on the number of requests or service costs
Vehicle eligibilityWhether your vehicle and situation qualify for assistance

If unlocking is not included, you may need to arrange and pay for a locksmith yourself.

What Should You Check Before Requesting Roadside Assistance?

Before calling for help, prepare the following information:

  • Your vehicle registration number and insurance or assistance details.
  • Your current location or nearest landmark.
  • The problem you are facing, such as an empty fuel tank or locked keys.
  • A contact number where the assistance team can reach you.

You should also confirm whether the service is included, whether additional charges apply and how long assistance may take to arrive.

If you are unsure which benefits your package provides, check your policy documents or contact your provider before requesting the service.

Know Your Roadside Assistance Benefits Before You Need Them

Running out of petrol or getting locked out of your car can disrupt your journey, but you may not have to handle it alone. Check your roadside assistance benefits in advance so you know whether fuel delivery, vehicle unlocking or other emergency services are available.

Understanding the service limits and possible charges can also help you avoid unexpected costs when you need assistance.

Frequently asked questions

Will roadside assistance bring petrol to my car for free?

Not necessarily. Some packages cover fuel delivery but require you to pay for the petrol itself. Other providers may impose additional charges or service limits.

Can roadside assistance open my car if I leave the keys inside?

Some packages offer vehicle unlocking or locksmith assistance. However, not every plan includes this benefit, so check your coverage first.

Can I request roadside assistance if I am stranded on a highway?

Yes, if your package provides the relevant service and the location is within its service area. For highway emergencies, contact the highway operator as well and follow its safety instructions.

Does comprehensive car insurance automatically include roadside assistance?

No. Comprehensive car insurance does not automatically mean you have every roadside assistance benefit. Services such as fuel delivery and vehicle unlocking depend on the insurer, package and any additional benefits selected.

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