The early November storm left Wiscasset short a plow truck as a tree limb fell and crushed the truck’s cab Nov. 2.
“It was perfect timing. The limb, about 13 inches in diameter and 13 feet long, decided to fall down right as the driver was under it,” Wiscasset Public Works Director Doug Fowler said.
According to Fowler, the driver was heading out for the third time that evening, on Willow Lane, following his route through the pine forest.
The limb crushed the driver’s side roof supporting arm and broke the windshield, steering wheel, and steering column, Fowler said.
“Amazingly enough, the driver had no injuries,” Fowler said, “The driver was experienced and comfortable behind the wheel in the storm.”
“The insurance said the 1996 GMC Topkick is a total. This puts the public works department in a jam before the season officially starts,” Fowler said.
The department is looking into buying another plow truck before winter, according to Fowler.
“We fared well overall. Wiscasset public works was well prepared for the early winter storm,” Fowler said.
