The town is not responsible if snow from a plow knocks over a mailbox (it may be responsible if the plow actually hits the mailbox, though).—Press photo
The Highway Department is responsible for keeping 420 town roads cleared of snow and passable during snow storms like today’s, reports Dave Buccitti, foreman of the Department of Public Services, who is asking townspeople’s cooperation in keeping roads clear.
“The help of every resident is required to successfully accomplish this important task in a safe and timely manner,” he said.
The Highway Department says:
- Do not park any vehicle in the street before or during a snow storm. Town ordinances prohibit this and your vehicle could be ticketed and/or towed by the Police Department.
- Do not plow or push snow into the town road. This practice creates hazardous conditions for other drivers and Highway Department personnel. Fines will be levied to the homeowner, so talk to your plowing contractor.
- Do not place objects such as garbage cans in or near the edge of the road. Highway personnel cannot stop at each house to move the objects, and therefore, they may be damaged. Placing objects in or near the road (within the town’s right of way) is at the owners’ risk.
- Be sure that your mailbox is firmly attached to its post and that the post is securely buried in the ground. Check the condition of your post — if it has been in the ground for a few years, it may be rotted even if it looks okay. Additionally, be sure that your mailbox and post are correctly installed based on the Town of Ridgefield guidelines (see website below). The Town of Ridgefield does not assume any responsibility for the replacement of mailboxes or posts that are within the town’s right of way — unless they are physically struck by the equipment. Damage from snow thrown from town plows is not the town’s responsibility.
“Coping with winter storms is never easy,” said Mr. Buccitti. “The Highway Department asks for your assistance and indulgence as they make every effort to keep our streets passable and safe for residents, visitors and emergency services.
For more information on specific town storm polices click on the Public Services link under Departments on the town’s website, www.ridgefieldct.org.