PHOENIX -- AAA Arizona is once again offering its popular "Tipsy Tow" service on a holiday that's known for alcohol consumption -- St. Patrick's Day.
The service will be available starting at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 17, through 6 a.m. on Thursday.
“It is important to remember that as few as one or two drinks can impair your driving ability,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Director Linda Gorman in a news release. “Rather than getting behind the wheel or in the vehicle with a driver who has been drinking, remember that you can rely on AAA to get you home safely this St. Patrick’s Day.”
All it takes is a call to 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) and the words, "I need a Tipsy Tow." You can get a free ride home -- up to 10 miles -- for you and your car, and you don't even have to be an AAA member.
Launched in 2009, this is the only free program of its kind in Arizona.
While the tow truck operators will take the driver, one passenger, and the driver's vehicle to the driver's home, they will not provide transportation to another drinking establishment, event or any other location. The one exception to the destination rule is a hotel where the driver is already staying or is planning to stay.
Trips longer than 10 miles will be charged at the towing company's standard rate.
According to AAA, a first-time DUI conviction can cost more than $10,000 in fines, penalties, restitution, ignition interlock fees, legal fees and increased insurance costs.
