Community Corner
Free Tows Offered to Prevent Drunken Drivers on St. Patrick's Day
Those who have had too much to drink can call AAA for a free ride home through the organization's "Tipsy Tow" program between 6 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday.
In an attempt to curb drunken driving following St. Patrick's Day celebrations, AAA Northern California is offering free tows to AAA members and non-members alike.
"Many people enjoy getting in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, which tends to involve plenty of celebrating," AAA Northern California spokeswoman Cynthia Harris said.
Those who have had too much to drink can call AAA for a free ride home through the organization's "Tipsy Tow" program between 6 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday.
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"If you've been drinking alcohol, don't get behind the wheel," Harris said. "Give AAA a call, and we'll make sure you get home safely."
Drivers, potential passengers, party hosts, bartenders and restaurant managers can call (800) 222-4357 (AAA-HELP) for a free tow home of up to 10 miles by saying "I need a Tipsy Tow."
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The service provides a one-way ride for the driver and vehicle to the driver's home. Additional passengers will be transported only if there is room in the tow truck cab.
Requests for reservations will not be honored.
Those who do not plan ahead and act responsibly could face increased law enforcement targeting drunken driving. As the holiday approaches, the California Highway Patrol said it is actively searching for those driving under the influence.
"If you sit behind the steering wheel of a vehicle and make the decision to drink excessively and drive, you are putting lives in danger," CHP Golden Gate Division Chief Teresa Becher said.
"It could be your parent, a spouse, a child, a friend, whose life may be erased in just seconds," Becher said.
The CHP recently knocked on the doors of 54 people with DUI warrants and arrested 16 of those individuals. Becher said that those who have a warrant and do not want the CHP to come knocking can surrender at any CHP office or local police or sheriff's department.
-- Bay City News
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