Phoenix, Ariz., May 27, 2010. As a safe alternative to drinking and driving this Memorial Day, AAA Arizona is offering its free Tipsy Tow service for those who may have celebrated the unofficial start of summer a little too much. Tipsy Tow service will begin 6 p.m., Sun., May 30, and run through 6 a.m., Mon., May 31.

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

“Festivities that take place over holiday weekends often have a more relaxed attitude towards consuming alcohol,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Director Linda Gorman. “Through Tipsy Tow, we aim to make the roads safer for everyone while providing motorists and passengers a resource they can utilize in a precarious situation.”

Tipsy Tow provides 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 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.

A first of its kind and the only free program of its kind in the state, AAA Arizona launched the Tipsy Tow program over Memorial Day 2009.  

The auto club 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.  In 2008, AAA was ranked the No. 1 “socially responsible” brand by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator.