PennDOT offers tips for mailboxes and driveways during snowstorms

As low temperatures and built-up snow continue to impact the region, PennDOT has some tips for local residents to maintain their mailboxes and driveways.

PennDOT allows property owners to place mailboxes within the limits of the legal right-of-way along state-owned roadways to accommodate the U.S. Postal Service’s need to deliver and receive mail and for the convenience of residents.

These mailboxes in the legal are the responsibility of the owner to maintain or repair.

“Throughout the winter season we receive concerns about mailboxes along the roadway and snow piling up in driveways,” said Robb Dean, assistant district executive – maintenance.

“Our snowplow operators are continuously working throughout each snowstorm to provide safe and passable roadways to our motorists. We ask that property owners be mindful of their responsibilities when it comes to mailboxes in the rightof- way and removing snow around their driveways.”

PennDOT offered some tips to protect mailboxes during inclement weather:

• Ensure the mailbox has strong support.

• Construct a cantilever mailbox support that will “swing” a mailbox out of harm’s way.

• Clear snow from in front and on the sides of the mailbox, disposing of it properly, not on the roadway.

• Use reflective tape or other material to make the mailbox easier to see during storms or dark hours.

PennDOT said if residents have any questions regarding the proper location for a mailbox along a roadway, they can direct them to their local post office.

PennDOT asked residents not to shovel snow onto state roads, as it can increase the risk of crashes and may make property owners liable and/or subject to fines. They recommend moving snow to the right side of a driveway and clearing a section before the driveway to decrease the amount of snow a plow might push onto the driveway.

“Property owners should also avoid creating large piles at entrances as high accumulations of snow can obstruct the vision of motorists, posing a safety hazard,” PennDOT said in a statement.

Mail delays

As snow-clearing efforts continue throughout the region, some residents may face delays in receiving their mail.

“Safety of the public and our employees is the top priority as we work to restore nationwide mail pickup, processing, transportation, and delivery, and resume regular retail hours at Post Offices, stations, and branches that may have temporarily closed due to weather conditions,” USPS states on its website. “Customers are requested, for the safety of our employees, to clear a path to access the mailbox.”

To check the status of packages or other items, residents can go to the USPS website at https://www.usps.com.