Labor Day weekend lets Americans get one more long weekend of summer before Pumpkin Spice season kicks into full gear. That means some people might go a bit overboard with their last summer cocktails.
While they might have to contend with hangovers before heading back to work, one thing they won’t have to deal with is driving under the influence, thanks to AAA. Its Tow to Go program is returning for the Labor Day holiday.
“One in four drivers admits to driving impaired; AAA Tow to Go removes a common reason they take the risk,” said AAA in a Wednesday press release.
Tow to Go offers free and confidential rides home (or to a safe location up to 10 miles away) not just for impaired drivers, but their cars too. It is available from 6 p.m. Sept. 4 through 6 a.m. Sept. 8 for both AAA members and non-members in select states and regions.
To get one of these rides, it’s as simple as calling (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 and requesting service.
“AAA’s latest survey highlights the continued need for programs like Tow to Go,” said the auto club in its press release.
Adrienne Woodland, a spokeswoman for AAA, said that motorists sometimes get into dangerous situations – like driving under the influence – because they are worried about leaving their vehicle. For example, 22% of the drivers in Michigan who admitted to driving after consuming alcohol, marijuana, or medications that could impair their ability to drive said they did so because they didn’t want their vehicle unattended overnight.
“There should never be a choice between leaving your vehicle behind and making it home safely,” said Woodland said. “Our research shows some drivers get behind the wheel because they’re worried about what will happen to their vehicle. Tow to Go removes that concern and gives people a safe alternative when they need it most.”
Tow to Go has operated for more than 25 years and has transported nearly 30,000 impaired drivers. The service is available in Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee and Wisconsin. It is available in select locations in Colorado (Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs) and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend).
In Pennsylvania and other states where the program isn’t offered, AAA recommends agreeing on a designated driver before Labor Day festivities or utilizing ride-share options.
