LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – To help Californians send off summer safely, AAA is offering Labor Day Tipsy Tow service.

The service will be available statewide starting at 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 3, and run through 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 4.

“As Californians enjoy summer's last hurrah, AAA wants to discourage anyone from getting behind the wheel if they are intoxicated,” said Michael Blasky, spokesman for AAA Northern California. “Tipsy Tow provides a simple solution for getting motorists home safely while making the roads safer for everyone."

To use the service, drivers, potential passengers, party hosts, bartenders, restaurant managers or anyone who wants to ensure a safe ride home for an intoxicated motorist should call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) during the service period and state that they need a Tipsy Tow.

Tipsy Tow provides a free ride home and vehicle tow of up to 10 miles for any driver, not just AAA Members. For mileage beyond this, motorists are charged a standard towing rate.

Services will not be provided to motorists requesting a tow to another drinking establishment, repair facility or any other location other than their home or a hotel if the motorist is, or plans to become, a guest.

Other services not covered include: Requests to start a vehicle, flat tire change, gas delivery, “taxi” service and requests to transport more than two people with the vehicle.

AAA estimates that a first-time DUI conviction can cost a motorist more than $10,000 in fines, penalties, legal fees and increased insurance costs.