Don't Drink and Drive, Dummy! Get a Free "Tipsy Tow"

It's a matter of simple math: New Year's Eve + Drinking + Driving = DUI.

That's why the smart--and thoughtful--folks at the Auto Club (AAA) are once again offering up their "Tipsy Tow" service, which provides free rides in the 13 SoCal counties they serve from 6 p.m. tonight until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, January 1, 2008. That's a pretty sweet deal, in all honesty. Here's what you, or your party host, or your concerned friend should do once your car keys are safely removed from your grasp: Give a call to 1-800-400-4AAA and tell the operator the secret password. (Oh, it's "I need a Tipsy Tow." This isn't rocket science, people.) One of the AAA's snazzy road service trucks will then show up to haul your car and your drunk ass up to seven miles.

There are, of course, some reasonable limitations, which are as follows, according to the AAA's recent press release:

Callers need to keep in mind that the service excludes rides for passengers, is restricted to a one-way, one-time ride for the driver and the destination is limited to the driver's residence. Reservations are not accepted. Drivers can expect to pay the rate charged by the tow truck contractor for rides farther than seven miles.

What AAA hopes to remind New Year's revelers of is the dangerous nature of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated, and the importance of road safety during this festive time of year. AAA has some sobering thoughts about the consequences of getting a DUI: "People convicted of driving under the influence could lose many important things in their lives, such as family, job, dignity and money. The Auto Club estimates that a first time DUI conviction can cost $13,468 or more in fines, penalties, restitution, legal fees and increased insurance costs." They are encouraging party hosts to have non-alcoholic beverages at a gathering, and for partyers to have a designated driver, as well as a cab company's number in their wallet, and to take the keys away from anyone who's had too much hooch.

Making the "Tipsy Tow" call is another alternative to the pricier option of taking a cab, and something to do in a pinch if your party destination isn't accessible by the Metro. Of course, anything is a hell of a lot better than getting behind the wheel shitfaced.

Photo by *Solar ikon* via Flickr