AAA Continues Years-Long Tradition Of Offering 'Tipsy Tow' Service On New Year's Eve

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The Automobile Club of Southern California will once again be offering free towing on New Year's Eve in an effort to keep drunken drivers off the road.

The Tipsy Tow service, now in its 21st year, will be available to intoxicated drivers in the 13 counties in the Southland.

The Auto Club says those wishing to take advantage of the free tow can call (800) 400-4AAA and indicate that they need a "Tipsy Tow." The service will be available starting at 6 p.m. Saturday through 6 a.m. Sunday.

Drivers should keep in mind that there are restrictions.

For starters, the service does not include rides for passengers and is restricted to a one-way, one-time ride of up to seven miles away to the driver's home.

For distances that exceed seven miles, drivers will be expected to pay the normal rate charged by the tow truck operator.

According to estimates provided by the Auto Club, a first-time misdemeanor DUI conviction can cost around $15,688 or more in fines, penalties, restitution, legal fees and increased insurance costs. For those under the legal age of drinking, a first misdemeanor offense for DUI can cost $22,500.

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