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Tractor-Trailer Ignores Road Signs, Becomes Stuck On Area Road, Police Say

A tractor-trailer became stuck on an area mountain road after allegedly ignoring numerous signs that the roadway was closed.

The tractor-trailer as it attempts to turn around.

The tractor-trailer as it attempts to turn around.

Photo Credit: Saugerties Police Department

The incident took place in Ulster County on Monday, Feb. 6, and Tuesday, Feb. 7, on Platte Cove Road, in the town of Saugerties.

On Feb. 6, Saugerties police officers responded to a call for a stuck tractor-trailer on Platte Cove Road, said Saugerties Chief Joseph Sinagra.

When officers arrived on the scene they found that 48-year-old Joseph James Brooks, of Johnstown, failed to abide by warning signs and several road closure signs that Platte Clove Mountain was closed for the season, Sinagra said.

Brooks instead, continued to drive part way up the mountain, when he realized he could no longer continue due to the road conditions, the chief said.

Brooks attempted to turn the tractor-trailer around, wedging the semi and trailer completely across the roadway. 

Finding he was unable to dislodge the truck, Brook called 911. Police contacted a heavy tow for consultation on the road hazard. 

Steyer’s Towing responded and decided that the tractor-trailer could only be moved from the northern side of Platte Clove, Sinagra said.

Steyer’s proceeded to the Hunter side of West Saugerties Road, only to find that due to icy road conditions, the tractor-trailer could not be immediately removed. 

Finally on Feb. 7, 24 hours later, the truck was finally removed from the roadway. 

Brooks received four traffic tickets for failing to abide by the posted traffic control devices.

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