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Freeway Service Team helps drivers in need for free

Posted at 6:48 PM, Nov 15, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-15 20:16:38-05
It's completely free! The Wisconsin Department of Transportation's Freeway Service Team helps drivers stranded on the side of the road.
 
The Federal Highway Administration is honoring their service this week declaring November 14 through 18 National Traffic Incident Response Awareness Week. 
 
Whether it's a phone call or a vehicle sitting in distress, the Freeway Service team is usually first on the scene.
 
The Communications Manager for the Bureau of Traffic Operations said the team has saved Wisconsin money.
 
"Last year we had over $300 million dollars in user delay costs. Since we started the Freeway Service Team, we've seen a 21 percent decrease in response times."
 

This state-sponsored service is a combination of tow truck operators that can do minor mechanical work, and Milwaukee and Dane County Sheriff Departments working to clear the road issue while alleviating the congestion from the incident.

Tod Menzel, the Chief Operations Officer of Prairie Land Towing, has been contracted through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, to work in construction zones and said they're always ready to help.

"Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. till 8 p.m. Saturday and Sundays are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. so 12 hours a day, all holidays, all days 365."

One of the biggest takeaways from this national week is the Move Over, Slow Down Law. Having worked as a Tow Truck Operator for the last 4.5 years, Gadiel Romero said he's had too many close calls while trying to help those in need.
 

"You can avoid it, but I can't. You know, I'm out here pushing air basically and nothing  happens. That's kind of nerve wracking. You're coming straight towards us, and we have no control of what you're doing.  

Failure to follow the Move Over, Slow Down Law could result in three points on your license and a $4264 dollar fine at minimum. Additionally, if you crash you'll have your license suspended and could serve up to seven years in prison.