AAA Florida activates ‘Tow To Go’ to keep impaired drivers off the road on Independence Day Weekend

AAA is offering "Tow-To-Go" service for Independence Day stretch.

No doubt the Fourth of July holiday period will see many Floridians on the roadway and AAA wants patriotic travelers who’ve enjoyed a few beverages to know that help is available, and at no charge.

AAA’s “Tow To Go” is designed to prevent impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel by offering them — and their vehicles — a lift to a safe destination within a 10-mile radius of their pickup point.

The association said the service will be available throughout Independence Day Weekend, beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday and extending through 6 a.m. on July 8. AAA projects nearly 4.5 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more during the five-day holiday travel period.

AAA said the service will be available to all drivers, regardless of whether they are AAA members. Drivers can connect with the service by calling (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 from 6 p.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Monday. Drivers who use Tow To Go will not be charged any fees.

“By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications,” said Mark Jenkins, a spokesperson for AAA in Florida. “Please plan ahead by asking a friend to be your designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. If those plans fall through, you can call Tow to Go and AAA will arrange for a safe ride for you.”

The Tow to Go program launched over 25 years ago and is being activated in 11 states, including Florida, over the holiday weekend. The others: Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte) and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend).

Since its inception, Tow to Go has helped prevent nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from getting on U.S. roadways.

Additional guidelines for Tow to Go:

—Tow to Go appointments cannot be scheduled in advance. The organization said it is designed as a “safety net” for drivers who did not plan ahead. AAA stressed that drivers should always choose a designated driver before a night out on the town.

—In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to provide impaired individuals a safe ride home.

—Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.