What is the Gulf Coast Regional Tow and Go Program?
The Gulf Coast Regional Tow and Go Program provides free towing services to motorists stranded on Houston freeways with camera coverage. The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) launched the initiative in response to increasing congestion on Houston roadways. Wrecker truck drivers will also assist in changing flat tires under certain circumstances.
Qualified Tows
Law enforcement must authorize each tow. Law enforcement can approve Tow and Go clearance when an officer is physically present or when the Houston TranStar traffic center identifies stranded motorists. All tow truck operators contracted by the program meet strict selection standards and have completed roadway safety and traffic incident management training.
How Far Will the Gulf Coast Regional Tow & Go Tow a Stranded Motorist?
The Tow and Go program will tow a stranded motorist up to one mile from the pickup location.
What Vehicles Does the Gulf Coast Regional Tow and Go Program Apply To?
The Tow and Go program provides free towing services for motorcycles, automobiles, and trailers (when possible) that break down due to mechanical failure on a Houston freeway with camera coverage. Types of mechanical failure covered by the Tow and Go program include:
- Flat tires
- Running out of gas
- Vehicle overheating
- Unexpected vehicle defects.
The tow driver contracted under the Tow and Go program will assist any stalled vehicles experiencing these mechanical failures within the program’s service area by towing them to a safe location within a mile of where the vehicle stalled. If you have a flat tire and the equipment necessary to fix it, including a spare tire, the Tow and Go operator will change the tire at no cost.
Program Expansion Anticipated in the Future
Eventually, the H-GAC hopes to expand this program to access freeways in neighboring counties where camera coverage is available, and funding is allowed. The H-GAC manages the Tow and Go Program through funding it receives from the Federal Highway Administration and the Texas Department of Transportation.
What if I Use a Private Towing Service?
Towing services like AAA and Better World Club must arrive only after a law enforcement official monitoring the freeway authorizes a Tow and Go service. Personal roadside assistance programs can also meet the Tow and Go driver at a safe location after the driver is cleared from the freeway.
What Vehicles Are Not Covered Under the Tow and Go Program?
Abandoned vehicles, car accidents, and other vehicles involved in police scenes are not eligible for the Tow and Go services. The program helps vehicle owners avoid day and night shoulder accidents by moving stalled vehicles off the highway.
Tow and Go Phone Number and Other Available Resources
To access Tow and Go services, call 713-881-3333. A website also explains how the Tow and Go program works, including what to do if you get stuck. Visit towandgo.com to learn more about the initiative.
Author
