What CAA Members need to know about the Tow Zone Pilot Program

The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) is introducing a series of restricted towing zones along provincial highways beginning on Dec. 13, 2021. Four restricted tow zones will be in effect along sections of highways in the Greater Toronto Area as part of the pilot program.

These highways have been chosen based on factors such as traffic volume and collision data. Among the designated zones are stretches of highways 400, 401, 409, 427, and the QEW.

CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) is reinforcing its commitment to ensure members are safe no matter the location. Getting stuck on the side of the road can be an intimidating situation. CAANEO's advice is first to assess your situation and if it's an emergency, call 911. Otherwise, Members are encouraged to press *222 to have CAANEO help coordinate a rescue - through either one of CAA’s tow truck providers or through the MTO (depending on the situation).

CAA has a commitment to road and consumer safety in Ontario. If an MTO tow zone provider needs to remove a CAA Member's vehicle, CAA will cover the cost of their tow, based on the limits of the Member's CAA Membership level.

For more than a decade, CAA has been advocating for towing industry reforms and working towards greater consumer protection. In 2018, CAA created the Towing Bill of Rights, a glove box reference card, to help familiarize CAA Members and all motorists with what their legal rights are when in need of towing services.