by
Shift San Diego
| Dec 17, 2018
Having car trouble? Out of gas? Flat tire? Call 511!
Drivers stranded on freeways in the San Diego region can dial 511 from a cell phone for FREE roadside assistance. SANDAG, in partnership with Caltrans and CHP, operates a Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) that provides free roadside assistance to drivers stranded along approximately 222 miles of local freeways in San Diego County. The FSP operates Monday through Friday from 5:30 – 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 – 6:30 p.m., except on Federal holidays. With SB1 funding, a pilot program will expand hours to midday and weekend service. Midday service from 10-2 on weekdays will start on July 1, and weekend service from 10 – 6 will start on August 1.
FSP’s crew of certified drivers help with:
- A gallon of gas
- A jump start
- Water for the radiator
- Changing a flat tire
- Towing to a safe, pre-determined location designated by CHP (if they can’t get your vehicle running)
For help, simply call 511 and say, “Roadside Assistance”.
FSP tow or pickup trucks are white with the statewide FSP logo on the door. Drivers wear blue uniforms and yellow safety vests and are not allowed to accept tips or payment.
For more information, please visit 511sd.com/aid.
Did you have a positive experience with one of our FSP drivers? Email us to let us know!

Call 511 from any phone to be also connected toll-free to public transportation, traffic conditions, iCommute, FasTrak®, Compass Card, and a Spanish menu.
Additionally, go to ShiftSanDiego.com to learn about other commuter resources here, such as:
- Construction information for the Golden Triangle/University City area
- Vanpool subsidy (up to $400 a month)
- Guaranteed Ride Home Program (for those who commute alternatively to work)