The call boxes on California highways connect to a dedicated regional answer center and the caller ID from the call box displays call box sign numbers and the location of the caller. There are also experimental call box systems around Sacramento that have been used to connect fog sensors by using the cellular transceiver inside the call box.
It is important to note that the presence of a call box on a highway does not mean it is a state-maintained highway or even a state route. Call boxes are installed and maintained by the local Service Authority for Freeways and Expressways, also known as SAFE. According to Calsafe.org, over 15,000 call boxes have been installed in California in 31 of the state's 58 counties.
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is home to 102 emergency call boxes which were set up to assist stranded motorists on the 24 mile-long bridge. There are also seven turnouts along the bridge for breakdowns and other maintenance needs, and a radio station.
The call boxes are equipped with Intelligent Transportation Systems which help to enhance data collection such as weather data, traffic data and fog detection.
Although some areas of Florida no longer rely on call boxes, the highway patrol in the Treasure Coast says motorists still use the emergency system. Florida's Turnpike and Interstate 95 both still have free roadside emergency phones stationed at every mile.
According to Randy Pierce, telecommunications administrator with the Florida Department of Transportation, 13,000 calls come in annually from these boxes.
If cell phone service has been lost, or people aren't sure where they are, they can use the call box to connect to the appropriate agency. Once the box is activated, it allows the dispatcher to know where the call came from. Callers don't actually speak on the box, they push buttons to indicate if they need medical assistance, or a tow or law enforcement.
The state of Massachusetts in accordance with the Statewide Emergency Call Box System is made up of 854 call boxes located on various remote highways with limited access including I-91, I-93, I-95, I-195, and I-495. It is the responsibility of the Massachusetts State Police to monitor each call box. An audio and visual alarm lets them know what a call box has been activated, where it is located and what type of assistance is needed.
