NHDOT warns backcountry users about leaving vehicles on the side of road

The New Hampshire Department of Transportation warns those who are planning to explore and enjoy the NH backcountry this winter to be careful when and where they park their vehicles. Drivers are cautioned about leaving vehicles parked along the roadway. Anyone leaving a vehicle unattended on the side of the road, runs the risk of breaking the law and having their vehicle towed away by law enforcement.

Backcountry users are encouraged to park in clearly marked and designated parking areas, typically found at the summit of mountain passes and at some trail heads. However, a number of parking areas available during the spring, summer and fall are not plowed for winter use. Additionally those that are plowed, particularly those maintained by NHODT, are not plowed during storms. These lots may have a single lane plowed if the lot is used as a plow route turnaround or used as a plow driver rest stop, but, for the most part these lots are plowed as part of storm cleanup during regular work hours, Monday thru Friday.

Some areas along the highway may provide ample room to park several feet away and off the asphalt. But NHDOT reminds vehicle owners that they run the risk of being trapped with snow pushed by the plow. Vehicles left on the side of the road also make the plowing job difficult for road maintenance crews.

The primary objective of the NHDOT snowfighters is to clear the roadway as quickly and efficiently as possible so that the highway is made passable and safe for all travelers. The NHDOT and contract plow drivers work in all weather conditions. When visibility is low and a plow comes upon a vehicle parked on the side of the road, there is potential for a collision. The vehicle could be damaged by the passing plow. Plus, this puts our operator’s safety at risk and operations get behind schedule because of needed repairs or replacement the plow equipment.