For more than 25 years, the Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) has helped motorists on Orange County freeways. Now, the service is helping the environment as well.
The FSP is a special team of tow truck drivers that travel Orange County’s freeways during peak commuting hours to help motorists with disabled vehicles. Their job is to keep the freeways moving and reduce congestion by quickly removing disabled vehicles.
FSP services are free to motorists. From a jump start to a gallon of gas, or simply changing a flat tire, the trucks and drivers help people get back on the road. They'll even help take vehicles to a safe location off the freeway without charge.
Earlier this year, FSP deployed its first environmentally friendly tow trucks. With an electric motor mounted on a diesel engine, the new Hino Hybrid trucks are expected to reduce fuel consumption by up to 30 percent and have lower operating costs. In addition, the Hino trucks are expected to significantly reduce exhaust tailpipe emissions, resulting in cleaner air.
OCTA manages the program and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) provides dispatch, oversees operation of the contracted tow companies, and provides field services whenever law enforcement is required.
Learn more about the FSP program here.