Following the weekend storm that led to multiple road closures, Upper Makefield Township police issued citations to 11 drivers who chose to disregard road closed signs.
Police said they hope the penalties would serve as a deterrent.
“This will be an expensive lapse in judgement for them. But hopefully, next time when faced with a large road closed sign, they will pause and turn around,” police said.
In 2012, Republican Gov. Tom Corbett signed the law that allows officers to ticket people for going around road closed signs. The law specifically targets motorists who proceed past road closure signs.
“A fine of $250 for ignoring barricades doubles to $500 if first responders must rescue you or call a tow truck. Additionally, you get billed for the emergency response,” Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris said in a statement last year. “Aside from fines and likely car repairs, consider the danger to your life and others. It’s not worth the risk.”
There is a national campaign by local, county, state, and federal authorities urging drivers to heed road closed signs.
Data from the National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control highlighting the risks of driving through flooded roadways. Flooding remains the deadliest weather-related hazard each year.
As little as six inches of fast-flowing water can knock over an adult, while two feet of water is sufficient to sweep away most vehicles, including pickups and SUVs.
