AAA, police remind motorists to obey travel bans and exercise caution

Motorists in unsafe situations to call 911

By AAA of Western and Central New York

So far today, AAA has responded to just over 700 calls across Western New York and Central New York – the number has doubled since 9 a.m., which is still consistent with a typical January day.

The Buffalo metro area has had the most calls at 265, with CNY rural next with 126, and Rochester metro third with 125.

In Buffalo, most of the calls have been for winch-outs – where people went off the road and needed to be pulled out, along with tows.

In Rochester and Syracuse, we are seeing a lot of battery-related calls and vehicles that need tow trucks.

With many schools and businesses closed, and so many people heeding the advice of officials to stay home, it has helped reduce the number of dangerous situations.

Our drivers are reporting wintry conditions and are using extra caution on the roads. We advise people to avoid travel if possible, obey all driving bans, and stay up-to-date on conditions through the media.

The New York State Police (Troop A) wants to remind motorists to avoid any unnecessary travel. Tractor-trailers and buses should adhere to the driving ban for interstates and thruways throughout Erie County and certain parts of Western New York. It will be strictly enforced.

In some extreme temperatures and conditions, AAA battery installations will be limited to situations where technician and member safety can be assured. Any motorist in an unsafe situation should call 911.

Our Orchard Park branch is closed for the remainder of the day.

AAA expects call volume to increase as more people venture out after the storm passes. We are reminding people to use our website and app to request service to avoid potential wait times on the phone. To request roadside assistance, call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357), visit our website or download the AAA mobile app. Please keep in mind that we may be unable to provide service in areas that are under travel bans. Please refer to your town or county website for further information.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.