Help is Only a Call Away: How the PA Turnpike Keeps Drivers Safe and Moving

The Pennsylvania Turnpike connects families, links communities and empowers industries. Across 565-plus miles, it provides safe, efficient and convenient travel through and around the Commonwealth.

Although most journeys conclude smoothly, roadside incidents – such as flat tires or mechanical failures – can occur. Drivers traveling the PA Turnpike benefit from a robust roadside assistance program supported by our Traffic Operations Center, the GEICO Safety Patrol (staffed by PA Turnpike maintenance workers), and Pennsylvania State Police. This is designed to keep traffic flowing and motorists safe. Those belonging to travel clubs, such as AAA, may receive additional support through coordinated services.

The PA Turnpike Provides Immediate Roadside Assistance

Anyone with a cellular device can dial *11 (or 1-800-332-3880) to report incidents or request emergency assistance along the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

The line connects directly to the PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center (TOC) in Middletown, Dauphin County, where operators and state police are available 24/7. Functioning similarly to county 911 centers, the TOC focuses solely on PA Turnpike incidents. The computer-assisted dispatch (CAD) system is integrated with statewide county dispatch systems, enabling the nearest emergency personnel to respond – including AAA providers when applicable.

Calling 911 along the PA Turnpike is always an option, and members dialing AAA club numbers will have their information routed to the TOC.

Help may already be on its way, even before drivers pick up the phone. TOC dispatchers constantly monitor the roadway’s camera network, allowing proactive maintenance or early intervention for disabled motorists. However, it is still important for drivers to call for assistance if they experience trouble to ensure prompt and effective aid.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike has its own dedicated Pennsylvania State Police force, Troop T, for around the clock support.

The PA Turnpike Supports All Travelers, Including AAA Members

When calling *11, note your AAA membership and provide your member number.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission uses contracted service providers that respond to disabled vehicles and other issues. The majority of these authorized service providers are also AAA providers and typically arrive on scene within 45 minutes or less.

Towing rates depend on mileage from the breakdown point on the PA Turnpike to the authorized service provider's facility—and are based on your AAA membership. If a customer wants to be towed elsewhere, the provider may charge standard rates, with payment arrangements set beforehand. Depending on AAA membership or specific insurance policies that cover towing, drivers may have this service covered.

Disabled vehicles not impeding traffic or otherwise creating a safety hazard may be towed by a provider of the driver’s choice. It is up to PA Turnpike or PSP personnel to determine if there is a safety hazard, or if predicted weather events necessitate vehicle removal. Barring that, the PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center should still be notified of the arrangements made for vehicle removal. Safety is the PA Turnpike’s biggest priority, so staff may still support the scene with a member of the GEICO Safety Patrol until the vehicle is towed, free of charge.

AAA members should check with their club if fees may be waived.

Travelers without roadside assistance memberships have the same access to help through *11.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has more than 20 authorized service providers under contract to provide towing and emergency road service to motorists on the PA Turnpike 24 hours a day. View our current PA Turnpike charges and towing rates.

State police and the GEICO Safety Patrol can also provide help and support following accidents, vehicle breakdowns and emergencies.

What to Do If You Hit a Deer on the PA Turnpike

First and foremost, pull over safely, as far from the road as possible. Put on your hazard lights and remain inside your vehicle with your seat belt on if it is safe to do so. Do not approach the deer. Injured animals can be unpredictable. Dial *11 to connect to the PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center. Dispatchers will alert state police, the GEICO Safety Patrol and AAA, if applicable.

If the struck deer is alive and poses a hazard, if you are injured and/or your vehicle is not drivable, also dial *11 to connect with Turnpike dispatchers. If traveling outside of the turnpike system, motorists are encouraged to contact 911 for further action and guidance.

The PA Turnpike’s GEICO Safety Patrol may remain on scene to ensure safety until your vehicle is removed, even if you’ve arranged your own towing.

Tips for Staying Safe on the PA Turnpike During a Vehicle Breakdown

• If it is safe to do so, drive your car as far out of the active lanes of travel as possible. Move your vehicle to the shoulder, a wide area, service plaza, or off an exit, if feasible. Turn on hazard lights and immediately call *11.
• Do not exit your vehicle on the PA Turnpike when close to or in travel lanes. Stay in the vehicle, with your seat belt on, if safe, and wait for official help.
• If your vehicle breaks down, place a white or brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna or vehicle door facing traffic. At night, turn on the headlights and hazard lights.
• Pennsylvania’s ‘Move Over’ law requires drivers to move over or slow down to at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit when encountering an emergency scene, traffic stop or disabled vehicle. This includes PA Turnpike maintenance vehicles and tow trucks responding to an emergency.
• For cold weather emergencies, keep extra clothing, blankets, hats, gloves, coats, winter footwear, water and non-perishable food in your vehicle. If your car becomes disabled, ensure the tailpipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Run the engine sparingly to warm the cabin and conserve fuel.
  

For a comprehensive list of emergency services and aid available on the PA Turnpike, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roadside Assistance on the PA Turnpike

What number do I call for roadside assistance on the PA Turnpike?

Drivers on the PA Turnpike should dial *11 from a cellular phone or call 1-800-332-3880. This connects directly to the PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center, which operates 24/7 and coordinates assistance with Pennsylvania State Police, the GEICO Safety Patrol and authorized service providers.

Can I use my AAA membership if I break down on the PA Turnpike?

Yes. AAA members can receive roadside assistance on the PA Turnpike. When calling *11, drivers should inform the dispatcher of their AAA membership and provide their member number. Many authorized Turnpike service providers are also AAA providers.

How long does it take for help to arrive on the PA Turnpike?

Authorized service providers typically arrive within 45 minutes or less, depending on location, traffic conditions, and weather. The Traffic Operations Center works to dispatch the nearest available assistance as quickly as possible.

Is roadside assistance free on the PA Turnpike?

Some services—such as help from the GEICO Safety Patrol and traffic support from Pennsylvania State Police—are provided at no cost. Towing and repairs are billed based on mileage, service type and whether you have AAA or other roadside assistance coverage.

Can I choose my own towing company on the PA Turnpike?

In many cases, yes. If a disabled vehicle is not creating a safety hazard or impeding traffic, drivers may choose their own towing provider. However, PA Turnpike or State Police personnel may require removal if safety or weather conditions warrant it.

What should I do if my car breaks down on the PA Turnpike?

If your vehicle breaks down, move safely out of traffic, if possible, turn on hazard lights, and dial *11 immediately. Drivers should remain inside their vehicle with seat belts fastened when it is safe to do so and wait for official assistance.

What should I do if I hit a deer on the PA Turnpike?

Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, remain in your vehicle if safe, and dial *11. Do not approach the animal. Dispatchers will coordinate with State Police and the GEICO Safety Patrol.

What is the GEICO Safety Patrol?

The GEICO Safety Patrol is staffed by PA Turnpike maintenance workers who assist with disabled vehicles, traffic control, debris removal and scene safety. They may remain on scene until a vehicle is safely removed.

Are roadside services available during winter weather emergencies?

Yes. The PA Turnpike provides continuous monitoring and emergency response during winter conditions. Drivers are encouraged to carry emergency supplies such as blankets, warm clothing, food, and water, and to call *11 immediately if they become stranded.