I rarely put my keys in my pants pocket. Like right now, they are in my jacket (at work)... if the weather is warm and I don't have a jacket, then they're either in my hat or laying on my desk or in my briefcase. Then if I'm out in public...I usually keep them in my hand unless I need both hands...then I usually place them in my back pocket for a second (or my jacket or hoodie's pocket).
It's really rare for me to put my car keys in my front pants pockets for any length of time...but if I did...I could see how it could be an issue as you mention.
I also rarely put my wallet in my back pocket either (except for brief moments)...but if you saw it...you'd know why. Because I definitely can not sit properly with it in my back pocket. (LOL)