Going out for New Year's tonight? AAA may have your ride covered
The American Automobile Association is once again offering free tow services in Michigan for drivers concerned about getting home safely after New Year's Eve celebrations.
Their holiday promotion, Tow to Go, lets drivers request a AAA tow truck from a bar to their homes at no cost. Additionally, AAA doesn't require people to be members or insurance policyholders.
“’Tis the season for gathering with friends and family, and AAA is proud to offer this service to help everyone make it home for the holidays safely,” said Megan Cooper, an AAA spokesperson.
The company encourages people to use the service as a last resort. It can only carry drivers within a 10-mile radius. It is also only available for a single driver and their car. Other conditions may arise.
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Michigan State Police said in a tweet that 78 people died in traffic crashes from 2017 to 2021 during the Christmas and New Year's period. Of those deaths, 27 were from alcohol-related crashes.
The service started at 6 p.m. Dec. 23 and ends at 6 a.m. Monday and is available in Michigan and other states, according to the AAA website.
How do I request a tow?
Call 855-286-9246 and request a tow truck. The riders cannot be scheduled and may not drive during severe weather or in rural areas.
More:2 ways to get a ride home on New Year's Eve
What other options do I have?
The first option is to have a designated driver who's 100% committed to staying sober, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a release.
"If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement immediately," the agency advised. "Doing so could save the life of the driver, passenger, and others on the road. And, if you have a friend who is about to drive impaired, take away their keys and help them make arrangements to get home safely — it will be the greatest gift you ever give them."
Lansing Police Department released a video on Dec. 28 of a suspected drunk driver crashing their car on a road. The driver had only minor injuries, the department said in a Facebook comment, and they encouraged anyone to call 911 if they suspect someone's driving drunk.
CATA buses will end service around 7 p.m. for most stops on Dec. 31 and will resume on Jan. 2.
The big day has arrived! Michigan football followed by New Years Eve celebrations. Absolutely no reason to drive impaired if you plan ahead! Some Ideas:
🥳 Use a designated driver!
🥳 Use ride share!
🥳 Taxi Cab!
🥳 Public Transportation!
Most importantly just have a plan! pic.twitter.com/WRmGZYQaz5— MSP Second District (@mspmetrodet) December 31, 2022
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Contact reporter Krystal Nurse at 517-267-1344 or knurse@lsj.com. Follow her on Twitter @KrystalRNurse.
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Going out for New Year's tonight? AAA may have your ride covered
