Accident takes out traffic light, 3 utility poles

SANGERVILLE – An overloaded pulp truck caused about $20,000 in damage Tuesday when a log on the truck snagged a traffic light at a four-way intersection.

Matthew Carmichael, 28, of Guilford, was headed north on Route 23 when a log on top of his load caught the utility wires to the traffic light, prompting a chain of events that snarled traffic and disrupted power for about three hours, according to investigator Allen Emerson of the Piscataquis County Sheriff’s Department.

The traffic light, which was installed last year, was demolished. In addition, three utility poles were broken and others were damaged during the 10 a.m. accident, Emerson said Tuesday.

Carmichael, who was hauling for McAvoy Trucking of Sangerville, was summoned for operating an overweight and overheight vehicle, Emerson said. A state police commercial unit was called to assist the sheriff’s department in the investigation. Emerson estimated the damage to the traffic light, the utility poles, and wiring at $20,000.

The trailer of the 2006 Western Star truck also was damaged, Emerson said.

Central Maine Power Co. and Verizon officials worked throughout the afternoon to restore the wiring.

Sangerville firefighters provided traffic control.