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Call Boxes

You always have a way to connect! Call box services are transitioning to 511, the next generation of motorist aid.

Call Box Network Update

Orange County call boxes are being retired, with all call boxes removed by June 2027, as part of a planned phase-out. Call boxes will remain functional until they are removed.

Motorists no longer need to walk along a highway shoulder to reach assistance. For non-emergency freeway assistance, motorists can use a cell phone to call 5-1-1 and say “Motorist Aid” to reach the same assistance traditionally available through a call box; while staying in their vehicle.

For emergencies, call 9-1-1.

Overview

Call boxes served an important purpose at a time when cellular services were limited. Call boxes were created to give motorists a way to find assistance for their disabled vehicle, report roadway hazards, traffic collisions and other incidents on Orange County roadways.

Today, cellular phones and other communication devices are broadly available, and call box use has significantly declined. Motorists are encouraged to contact their club towing provider or 5-1-1 Motorist Assistance using their cell phone, for non-emergency freeway assistance.



Program Documents

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Fact Sheet - 2025-26
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Call Box Removal Request Form

Safety Tips

Your safety comes first! To help protect yourself and others, please follow these important precautions recommended by the California Highway Patrol:

  • If your vehicle breaks down, or is involved in a collision, move it to a place where you feel safest, onto the right shoulder and away from traffic lanes, if possible
  • If your vehicle is disabled in a traffic lane, on the left shoulder, or in an emergency, call 9-1-1
  • Stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt fastened until help arrives. If you need to exit, stay as far away as possible from the roadway and traffic.
  • Be especially careful in bad weather, as other motorists may have difficulty seeing you or maintaining control of their vehicle.
  • For additional recommendations, please visit https://www.chp.ca.gov/traffic/

FAQs

Call boxes will remain functional until they are removed. Removal will occur in phases, with the program scheduled to end by June 2027.

Call boxes served an important purpose when cellular services were limited. Today, cellular phones are broadly available, call box use has significantly declined, and more modern assistance options are available. OCTA offers 5-1-1 Motorist Assistance as the next generation of freeway help.

For non-emergency freeway assistance, using your cell phone, you may contact your club towing, if available, or call 5-1-1 and say “Motorist Aid” to reach an agent who will try to assist you. This allows you to reach help from the relative safety of your vehicle. If your vehicle is in an unsafe location or for emergencies, call 9-1-1.

Motorist Aid is part of the 511 Motorist Assistance and Traveler Information System and offers the same services typically provided through freeway callbox. It may help connect callers with appropriate assistance, such as an auto club or roadside assistance provider, a friend or family member, Freeway Service Patrol when available and within FSP service guidelines, or CHP Rotation Tow.

Please note, if arranging club or private towing, or calling a friend or family member, communicating directly with them will provide a faster response, as you can provide information and answer their questions directly, without going through a 511 agent.

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