Tractor-trailer gets stuck on Platte Clove Mountain for nearly 24 hours

Police say the driver failed to heed the warning signs and several road closure signs that the road was closed for the season.

News 12 Staff

Feb 8, 2023, 5:45 PM

Updated 603 days ago

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A tractor-trailer was stuck on a road in Saugerties for nearly 24 hours.
Police say that driver Joseph James Brooks, 48, of Johnstown, New York, failed Monday to heed the warning signs and several road closure signs that Platte Clove Mountain was closed for the season.
Instead, Brooks continued to drive up Platte Clove Road, when he realized he could no longer continue due to the road conditions. Brooks then attempted to turn the tractor-trailer around, wedging the semi and trailer completely across the roadway.
Finding he was unable to dislodge from his situation, Brooks called 911. 
A heavy tow truck was called in, and it was decided that the tractor-trailer could only be moved from the northern side of Platte Clove.  The truck went to the other side of the mountain only to find that the tractor-trailer could not be immediately removed due to icy road conditions.
Nearly 24 hours later, workers were finally able to remove the truck from the roadway. 
Brooks received four traffic tickets from police for failing to abide by the posted traffic control devices.