A Tow Zone Pilot Program is Launching in Sections of Highways in the GTA

As long-standing advocates for road users, CAA is ensuring its Members are covered with the launch of a new tow zone pilot on certain sections of the highway. The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) is looking at how to oversee and regulate the tow industry in the province. As part of this initiative, a new pilot program is launching with three main goals:

• better manage the flow of traffic and reduce congestion so that collisions or vehicle breakdowns can be cleared from the highway quickly and safely
• provide tow services from vetted tow operators with the proper equipment
• set pricing for tows in these zones, so operators can’t prey on drivers

As part of the pilot program, four restricted tow zones will be in effect along sections of highways in the Greater Toronto Area. Chosen based on such factors as traffic volume and collision data, among the designated zones are stretches of highways 400, 401, 409, 427 and the QEW. Breakdowns in these heavily travelled corridors represent only two percent of CAA’s million plus roadside assistance calls annually. As a Member, if you find yourself stuck in one of these zones, we are here to help.

​​Here to help

At CAA, our mission is to help you stay safe, mobile and protected. That’s why we want you to know that if you find yourself in need of a tow in one of the designated pilot program tow zones, we will be here to help make the process safe and easy.

How to Get Roadside Assistance No Matter Where You Are

We understand that breaking down on a highway can be stressful.

Please know that you can continue to call CAA first. We will determine if you are safe and if you are in a designated tow zone. We will then dispatch the appropriate roadside assistance to you.

If you require roadside assistance:

• Call CAA at: 1-800-222-HELP or *222

We will coordinate your roadside assistance, either with CAA or an MTO tow operator.

If it’s an emergency:

• Call 911 if your vehicle has broken down in a live lane of traffic or you have had a collision.

How to identify an MTO tow truck:

MTO tow trucks will be easily recognizable by the decals on their vehicles.

Fee for MTO tow service:

The Tow Zone fee for passenger vehicles has been set at $250 and includes 10 km of towing (extra fees for additional kilometres apply).

Important: In the event an MTO tow zone operator needs to remove your vehicle, CAA will cover the cost of your tow - based on the limits of your membership level.*

Here for You When You Need Us Most

At CAA, every single roadside call matters to us.

As a CAA Member, you can remain confident that you’ll be protected, regardless of where you are in the province and no matter what kind of towing service you may need.

Thank you for your continued trust in CAA.

For information on CAA Roadside Assistance and the ways you can contact us for help, please visit us online.

Image credit: ThamKC/iStock

*A receipt from the MTO tow operator is required for reimbursement. Some restrictions apply.