Rural Mailboxes- Is there a law on what kind of material we use to keep my mailbox up?

Question

My mailbox has be run over lastnight. Nobody, in my area knows nothing about it. On my next box, I plan on using a 4x4 steel post, and put cement inside of it so it not fall again. Since I live on a country road, and if someone hits this new steel post, will I GET SUE?? I did talk to my local postmaster to hold my mail a few days, but he does not care what I use to hold the next box, has long it is the same height.

Answer 1

Here in Tennessee I seen people that have thier mailbox incase with bricks it really nice looking. I say go for it. I dont think they can sue you since it on your property. I live on rural road and one night some hit my trash can which is like a mini dumpster on wheels and took off what an a s s h o l e.

Answer 2

Ken's response is the first I've heard in regards to post requirements.

Check with your local laws--I've seen posts made of logs, railroad ties, rebar, horseshoes, and a million other things.

This guy I listed below has a instructions for a breakaway mailbox post.

Answer 3

Your Postmaster would have the requirements for building boxes. If there aren't any, then you can use whatever you wish. But I would get a copy of the ordinance or a letter from your Postmaster for your own file first.

Answer 4

Check with USPS for height and setback dimensions. If your mailbox is legal according to USPS requirements you won't get sued. It is the drivers responsibility to avoid legal mailboxes.
Try using a length of railroad track to suport your box... that will give any vandals a real thrill...

Answer 5

for safety California requires mail boxes to be no stronger than a pine wood 2x4... 4x4s must be cut half way trough...
i think filling a 3" pipe with concrete welding it to a wheel and burring it under some railroad ties might get me sued one day
but that's why i have insurance