December 31, 2011
A too-successful viral marketing campaign for a free "Tipsy Tow" program offered by a few AAA regions has many thinking there's a free ride available for New Year's Eve revelers nationwide, but in fact, the program is not offered by AAA of Western and Central New York. Ithaca Dispatch says they're ready to provide a ride -- at the usual fares -- for those who've had too much to drink tonight, and TCAT will offer limited bus service.
AAA public affairs specialist Steve Pacer says the "Tipsy Tow" program, which provides a free vehicle tow and a safe ride home on New Year's Eve for callers in some AAA regions, is "offered on a club-by-club basis," and "AAA Western and Central New York does not currently offer" the program. It's notably available statewide in California and Texas.
Of course, AAA members whose vehicles are disabled may call the company for a tow under the terms of their member agreement. In some areas, the "Tipsy Tow" service is offered even to non-members. Pacer says if someone who's heard about the program calls in Western or Central New York, where it's not offered, staff at the AAA contact center will do their best to offer to call a friend or family member, or help arrange for a cab.
A taxi dispatcher at Ithaca Dispatch says the area's cab companies are fully staffed tonight to provide a safe ride home. Ithaca Dispatch will have seventeen cabs, and though they expect there might be a wait at peak times -- shortly before midnight, and shortly after 1:00am -- they expect things will run smoothly. Passengers may call ahead to make an appointment (at 607-277-TAXI, 277-CABS, or 277-7777) or simply call when they're ready for a ride. (Expect a wait of 20-30 minutes at peak times.)
Taxi rates are set by agreements with local municipalities, but Ithaca Dispatch offers discount coupons on their web site.
Most TCAT bus routes have service that ends early this evening. Check the TCAT web site at www.tcatbus.com for detailed route info, or use the Ride14850 app for iPhone or iPod to see how to get where you're going.
