AAA to offer free tows for tipsy holiday drivers

12/16/2013

Imbibing this holiday season without a designated driver or enough cash on hand for a taxi?

AAA Northwest Ohio said it is offering free, one-way rides of up to 10 miles for riders under the influence from 6 p.m. Dec. 24 through 6 a.m. Dec. 26, as well as from 6 p.m. Dec. 31 through 6 a.m. Jan. 2.

Under the program, called Tipsy Tow, intoxicated drivers and their vehicles will be towed home — not to another drinking establishment or someone else’s home. Tows to hotels are allowed only if motorists are checked in as guests or plan to do so.

Participants need to call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357) during those hours. They will be asked to provide their name, home address, and location of their vehicle.

The AAA affiliate said it encourages party-goers to have a designated driver or stay sober. It is offering its Tipsy Tow service only as a contingency plan.

“Tipsy Tow is available to help northwest Ohioans celebrate the holidays safely while helping fulfill AAA’s mission of making roads safer for everyone,” April Cochran, AAA Northwest Ohio spokesman, said.

The program is not for other road services AAA provides members.

For trips longer than 10 miles, motorists can expect to be charged the towing company’s standard rate.