Theft of accident sign puts motorists at risk

During an accident on the north hill on the evening of Feb. 8, an “Accident Ahead” sign was stolen as crews tried to help the victims of the accident.

The sign belongs to the North Bench Volunteer Fire District. Chief of NHFD Bill McCabe said at 6:15 p.m. a semi vs SUV accident tied up the north hill. 

The signs were placed one at the top of the north hill and one at the bottom. It was the one at the top that was stolen.

When cars did not slow down McCabe said crews went to the top of the hill and discovered  the sign that had been there moments before was gone.

“Someone actually took it while we were still clearing the accident,” McCabe said.

The crews on the scene of the accident were wondering why traffic was not slowing down. The accident was caused by slick roads right on the curve at the 45 MPH speed limit. No one was hurt in the accident but it did tie up the north bound lane.

McCabe said this was probably a prank and whoever took the sign may have thought it to be a funny joke. However, it could have caused a secondary accident, McCabe said. 

This would not be so funny to the people who took the sign. If the people who took it were caught after a secondary accident occurred those thieves would be held liable for the accident.

It is a very serious situation and those signs are for the protection of not only other drivers but for the emergency crews on scene who are trying to help the accident victims.

They are now looking for the large, bright florescent pink diamond shaped sign. McCabe would like anyone who may know something about the sign’s whereabouts to call the Boundary County Sheriff’s office at 267-3151.