Good Question: Are Roadside Call Boxes Obsolete?

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5) -- For many people, the cell phone has eliminated the need to carry a watch, camera and a GPS. Peter asked this Good Question: Are those roadside emergency call boxes obsolete?

ANSWER: According to Stefanie Pow of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the boxes still generate about 20,000 calls a year. While many people do have cell phones, sometimes drivers are not in range or their cell phone is not charged. The system connects directly to CHP, Freeway Service Patrol and individual auto clubs.

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