As of July 9, drivers who have their vehicle break down in Houston can have it towed to a safe location, free of charge.

The Houston-Galveston Area Council announced the Gulf Coast Regional Tow and Go Program, a no-cost towing service for vehicles that break down within view of camera coverage on freeways, according to a press release from the H-GAC. Vehicles, motorcycles and trailers that have mechanical failure, including running out of gas, overheating and flat tires, will be towed to a safe location within 1 mile.

David Fink, regional incident management program manager, said the Tow and Go Program is meant to reduce road congestion in Houston.

“Traffic is one of the biggest concerns for Houston-area residents. Hours spent in heavy congestion caused by stalled vehicles not only impact productivity and the environment but can put lives at risk,” he said.

Each tow is handled by authorized law enforcement and program operators will also change the tire for a spare if the necessary equipment is available. Vehicles involved in a crash, a law-enforcement incident or abandoned are not eligible for the free towing service.

Vehicles needing to be towed can call 713-881-3333 for immediate assistance. The program is currently for vehicles in view of the cameras on Houston freeways, but H-GAC officials said the program will expand into all of Harris County later this year.