Freeway Service Patrol to the Rescue

The Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) – a fleet of tow trucks on Bay Area freeways – patrol roadways during peak times to help keep freeway traffic moving smoothly. FSP drivers help clear vehicle accidents, pick up dangerous items left on the roadway and provide free help to stranded motorists.

FSP drivers are deployed during peak travel times every weekday morning and evening, and on the weekends in select areas with high traffic volumes.

More than 100 drivers from 11 tow companies cover 25 beats in the Bay Area.

Through June 2024, FSP has provided service free-of-charge to more than 45,000 motorists – and upwards of 65,000 people last year – with an average response time of less than 12 minutes. Most driver assists are for vehicle mechanical problems, flat tires, vehicles out of gas/charge, overheated engines, dead batteries or helping to clear the scene of a collision.

Drivers are trained and tested to qualify as an FSP tow truck operator. They must take a three-day certification training course conducted by the California Highway Patrol (CHP); pass a tow truck proficiency driving test; and pass a written examination on FSP protocols and policies and CHP radio codes.

MTC hires FSP contractors and manages the program in partnership with CHP. Caltrans is a funding partner that assists MTC with data and planning. The Freeway Service Patrol program has been in effect since 1992.

Thank you to the brave fleet of FSP drivers who risk their lives to help motorists in need and keep Bay Area freeways moving.