Each winter season, the NLCRPD resources and those of the first response community are tested by someone who chooses to ignore the signs posted on remote or wild roads. These roads are seasonal travel routes and have limited maintenance during the winter months. “NO WINTER MAINTENANCE” signs should not be ignored during the winter season, as otherwise the driver can find himself in unpredictable situations in bad weather.
Especially in the winter months and especially when snow is the order of the day or the ground is already covered, drivers must watch out for roads with these signs. Northern Lancaster County’s Regional Police have received calls for police assistance for stranded or crashed vehicles on these type of signposted roads. The typical needy person in this scenario falls into general categories of winter all-wheel drive or other auto enthusiasts who want to test the limits of their vehicles in winter conditions, or those who take a shortcut or touring the winter countryside. The NLCRPD reminds drivers to be careful on roads marked “NO WINTER MAINTENANCE” as drivers may be without immediate assistance.
There are several roads that have these signs posted that are generally maintained by the community or are located in remote nature reserves or wilderness areas within the NLCRPD jurisdiction. There is no legal obligation according to the case law to provide help attempts in any way in accordance with the dangers for the first aider community, the circumstances may allow a prolonged or delayed response even in an emergency.
When rescue is required and completed, violators must bear legal and civil penalties for the costs associated with the rescue effort.
