How to Use 511 Freeway Assist
If you have a non-emergency issue like a stalled car, a flat tire, or you’ve run out of gas, just dial 511 on your cell phone and say “Freeway Assist.”
You’ll be connected to a live operator who will pinpoint your location and connect you to the right help, fast.
Who Will Help You?
Depending on when and where you call from, you might receive assistance from:
- Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) and Similar Operators: During peak commute hours — Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM — FSP and other authorized service providers offer free roadside help, including jump-starts, tire changes, and tows off the freeway.
- Rotational Tow Program: If you need assistance outside of FSP hours, help may be provided through the California Highway Patrol’s Rotational Tow Program, which offers service at standard rates.
- Caltrans: If you're on a regional bridge or in a tunnel, Caltrans will handle the response.
511 Freeway Assist brings together MTC, CHP, and Caltrans to get you moving again — safely and efficiently.
When to Call 911 Instead
Call 911 only for emergencies, such as crashes, injuries, or dangerous situations.
For more info, visit the California Highway Patrol website.
About Freeway Assist
Freeway Assist was launched to meet the needs of today’s drivers, as more people rely on their cell phones instead of yellow roadside call boxes. By connecting the Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) and call box programs through 511, Freeway Assist combines the strengths of all three services to deliver fast, reliable, non-emergency roadside assistance on Bay Area freeways.
Freeway Assist is powered by a partnership between:
- CHP: Dedicated to roadway safety and protecting lives.
- Caltrans: Manages and maintains California’s state highway system.
- MTC: Plans, funds, and coordinates transportation for the nine-county Bay Area.
Together, we’re making roadside assistance simpler and more connected.