Staff Writer
A storm that blanketed parts of Aroostook County with up to six inches or more of snow is being blamed for a head-on collision on Route 164 in Washburn Wednesday evening. “The Washburn Police Department was contacted around 6 p.m. Dec. 9 and responded to a two-vehicle accident on Route 164 – the Washburn Rd. — along a section known as Churchill Hill. Officer Roy Guidry, WPD, responded and found two pick-up trucks had hit head-on,” said Chief Doug Conroy, WPD.
According to Conroy, Earl McGrath Jr., 54, of Mapleton, was traveling southeast in his 2002 Ford pickup. Ryan Rackliffe, 24, of Washburn, was headed home, traveling northwest in his 2008 Dodge pickup.
“McGrath lost control on snow-covered roads, crossed the center line and hit the front of Rackliffe’s vehicle. Both drivers were traveling alone and were wearing their seatbelts and airbags deployed,” said Conroy.
Conroy said traffic was temporarily blocked following the crash. Cowett’s Towing Service was contacted and removed both trucks from the scene. Both vehicles were considered a total loss.
“Both trucks sustained extensive damage. The drivers were lucky. There were no injuries to speak of,” said Conroy.
Both men were checked out at the scene by emergency personnel and determined to have sustained only minor injuries that did not require hospital treatment.
Conroy said no charges are being brought in connection with the accident. Guidry was assisted at the scene by the Washburn Fire Department and Maine State Trooper Fred Thomas.
The remainder of the evening was quiet for police covering the area.
“The head-on was the only accident our department responded to Wednesday,” said Conroy. “After the first storm of the season, folks seem to remember how to drive.”
No weather-related accidents of any significance were reported to the Presque Isle Police Department. The Ashland Police Department also reported an uneventful night.
“We had a good night. It’s been slow, with no accidents related to the snow Wednesday,” said Chief Cyr Martin, APD.
No accidents of any significance were reported to the Fort Fairfield Police Department, according to Sgt. Shawn Newell.
“We had no accidents to speak of,” said Newell. “We had a quiet evening.”
The Presque Isle Police Department reminds motorists to properly prepare for venturing out this winter.
“Be sure to clear windows, lights and license plates of snow and ice. Poor visibility leads to accidents. Ensure adequate time to reach your destination and don’t over-drive road conditions,” said Sgt. Joey Seeley, PIPD.
Police also advise motorists to check tires and wipers to make sure both are in good condition to withstand winter conditions, and keeping a few supplies such as a blanket and flashlight in one’s vehicle is recommended, in case a vehicle breaks down and help is delayed.
