SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Officials in San Bernardino and Riverside counties are retiring roadside call boxes that once served as lifelines for stranded motorists, citing a significant drop in usage due to the ubiquity of mobile phones.
The call boxes, introduced in the 1980s and 90s, are being phased out as part of a regional effort to modernize roadside assistance infrastructure.
According to recent data, calls from the boxes now account for less than 1% of all roadside communications.
“Mobile phones and other technology have fundamentally changed how people access help on the road,” said Rick Denison, President of the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority. “Maintaining this outdated system no longer makes sense, particularly when we can invest those resources into more effective and modern safety measures.”
Verizon, a key player in modern roadside connectivity, emphasized its commitment to technological advancement. “We’re the first and only carrier to offer free satellite messaging on select devices, providing a critical lifeline for communication even in areas without cell service,” said Steven Keller, Verizon’s Pacific Market President.
Authorities recommend that drivers take proactive steps to stay safe on the road by inspecting vehicles before travel, planning routes and rest stops, and keeping essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit on hand.
The removal of call boxes marks a shift toward more responsive and efficient systems in a digitally connected world.
