Media release from AAA – The Auto Club Group:
To ensure safer roads during the busy Labor Day holiday weekend, AAA is activating its ‘Tow to Go’ program across select states. The service will operate from 6:00 PM on Friday, August 29, 2025, through 6:00 AM on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, providing free, confidential rides for impaired drivers and their vehicles within a 10-mile radius.
Since its inception over 25 years ago, ‘Tow to Go’ has been instrumental in saving lives, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from the road. By offering the program over one of the year’s most heavily traveled weekends, AAA underscores its commitment to preventing alcohol-related crashes, which remain a leading cause of roadway fatalities.
“Labor Day should be a celebration, not a tragedy,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Impaired driving causes nearly one-third of traffic deaths. Choosing a designated driver or using ‘Tow to Go’ can save lives. AAA is proud to offer this service to help families stay safe.”
How ‘Tow to Go’ Works
- Availability: 6 PM Friday, August 29, 2025, to 6 AM Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
- Coverage Areas: Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend).
- What It Provides: A free, confidential ride for impaired drivers and a tow for their vehicles to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
- Who Can Use It: Open to both AAA members and non-members.
- Important Note: The service cannot be scheduled in advance and is designed for last-minute situations. AAA stresses that ‘Tow to Go’ should only be used as a last resort when no other safe transportation options are available.
Drunk Driving by the Numbers
The importance of programs like ‘Tow to Go’ is underscored by sobering statistics.
- Nearly one-third of all U.S. traffic deaths involve alcohol-impaired drivers.
- More than 12,000 lives were lost in alcohol-related crashes in 2023. That’s equivalent to one death every 42 minutes.
- AAA reminds travelers that responsible decision-making and planning ahead are the most effective ways to avoid becoming part of these statistics.
Drivers are encouraged to use AAA’s Tow to Go program or have alternative plans in place, such as designated drivers, rideshare services, or staying overnight where they celebrate. Together, we can make this Labor Day weekend safer for our communities.