AAA Offers “Tipsy Tow” Service for Fourth of July

Phoenix, Ariz., June 30, 2009. For drivers who may have had too much to drink this holiday, AAA Arizona is offering its free Tipsy Tow service for the 4th of July holiday. The service will start at 6 p.m. Friday, July 3, and will run through midnight on Saturday, July 4.

During this period, drivers, potential passengers, party hosts, bartenders and restaurant managers can call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) to request a free tow home of up to 10 miles. Callers can simply tell the AAA operator, “I need a Tipsy Tow,” to receive the free tow and ride home. The program is open to everyone. You do not need to be a AAA member to take advantage of this service.

“The Fourth of July holiday is a time for barbecues, family gatherings and parties – activities that can contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere toward consuming alcohol,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Director Linda Gorman. “We want motorists to think twice about getting behind the wheel if they've been drinking, while providing motorists and passengers a resource they can utilize should they find themselves in a precarious situation.”

Tipsy Tow will provide a one-way ride for the driver, one passenger and their vehicle.  Services will not be provided to motorists requesting a tow to another drinking establishment, repair facility or any location other than their home. However, in some cases, a tow to a hotel may be allowed if the motorists is, or plans to become, a guest.

Other services that will not be provided include: requests for a vehicle start, flat tire change, gas delivery, “taxi” service and requests to transport more than two people with the vehicle. In addition, motorists can expect to be charged the towing company’s standard rate for trips longer than 10 miles.

AAA Arizona launched the Tipsy Tow program for the Memorial Day holiday earlier this summer. The auto club will also offer the service for the Labor Day holiday later this summer.

AAA estimates that a first-time DUI conviction can cost a motorist more than $10,000 in fines, penalties, restitution, ignition interlock installation and maintenance, legal fees and increased insurance costs.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members.  Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists.  Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.  AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.

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