Phoenix, Ariz., Sept. 3, 2009. As a safe alternative to drinking and driving this Labor Day, AAA Arizona is offering its free Tipsy Tow service to those who may have celebrated a little too much. The service will start at 6 p.m. Sunday, September 6 and will run through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 7.

During this period, drivers, potential passengers, party hosts, bartenders and restaurant managers can call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) to request a free tow home of up to 10 miles. Callers can simply tell the AAA operator, “I need a Tipsy Tow,” to receive the free tow and ride home. The program is open to everyone. You do not need to be a AAA member to take advantage of this service.

“As Arizonans celebrate the last three day weekend of the summer, we want them to think twice before getting behind the wheel or in the vehicle with a driver who has been drinking,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Director Linda Gorman. “By providing Tipsy Tow as a resource to motorists and potential passengers who might otherwise find themselves in a dangerous situation, we’re hoping to make Arizona roadways safer for everyone.”

Tipsy Tow will provide a one-way ride for the driver, one passenger and their vehicle.  Services will not be provided to motorists requesting a tow to another drinking establishment, repair facility or any location other than their home. However, in some cases, a tow to a hotel may be allowed if the motorists is, or plans to become, a guest.

Other services that will not be provided include: requests for a vehicle start, flat tire change, gas delivery, “taxi” service and requests to transport more than two people with the vehicle. In addition, motorists can expect to be charged the towing company’s standard rate for trips longer than 10 miles.

AAA Arizona launched the Tipsy Tow program for the Memorial Day and Fourth of July holidays earlier this summer.

The auto club AAA estimates that a first-time DUI conviction can cost a motorist more than $10,000 in fines, penalties, restitution, ignition interlock installation and maintenance, legal fees and increased insurance costs.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members.  Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists.  Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.