What to Do If You Hit a Utility Pole

Any car accident can be dangerous–even life threatening. But the risks increase when you introduce electricity into the mix. Simple mistakes after colliding with a utility pole can turn a relatively minor accident into a fatal one. 

Obviously, if you’ve already been in a crash and you’re here looking for a car accident lawyer, this isn’t what you came for. You’re probably looking for information about your rights after a car accident or how to schedule a free consultation. But this information is important for everyone. Knowing what to do (and not to do) if you’re involved in an accident that compromises a utility pole–or even encounter one–can save a life. 

Next Steps after a Utility Pole Crash

Often, the first thing a driver does after a relatively minor accident is to get out of the vehicle to assess the damage. If you or another driver has hit a utility pole, you should generally NOT exit the vehicle. When a power line is down, there is a risk of electrocution in the simple act of stepping out of the car. So, you’ll want to remain in the vehicle if it is safe to do so. 

Even if a power line has fallen on your vehicle, experts say it is safer to remain inside than try to exit the vehicle. The path of least resistance for electricity is typically through the metal exterior of the vehicle and through the tires to the ground. If there’s a power line on your vehicle and you’re sitting in your car thinking about what to do next, you’re not in the path electricity is traveling. Stay where you are. 

Of course, that risk extends to anyone else who might walk near, so if a good Samaritan pulls alongside you, you’ll want to call out and warn them not to get out of the car or approach your vehicle. Similarly, if you come upon a vehicle that has struck a utility pole, stay in your vehicle. Warn anyone else nearby to do the same. 

Call 911 Right Away if You Hit a Utility Pole

You should call 911 immediately after hitting a utility pole, even if no one seems to be injured. The same is true if you see an accident involving a utility pole. That’s because fallen power lines present a serious danger that requires an immediate response. Even if no lines seem to be down, a qualified professional will need to check the integrity of the pole to ensure that the lines are secure. 

Don’t Be Lulled Into a False Sense of Security

Unfortunately, misunderstandings about electricity and power lines put people at risk. For example, if you’re older you may have grown up hearing that tires were insulators. But modern tires contain materials that conduct electricity, though imperfectly. In other words, the tires will not block electricity from flowing into the ground through the vehicle. Many people also believe power lines aren’t dangerous unless they’re sparking, but that’s also not true. A power line lying on the ground may be transmitting electricity into the ground without any visible signs. Take precautions whether you see danger signs or not.

When Should You Leave a Vehicle after Hitting a Utility Pole? 

Utility companies advise that you should leave your vehicle after hitting a utility pole in only one situation: when your vehicle is on fire. In that situation, it is still very dangerous to get out of the car. But it may be more dangerous to stay where you are. If you absolutely must leave the vehicle, multiple utility companies recommend: 

• Opening the car door without making contact with the metal
• Turning to face outward with both feet on the running board
• Jumping from the vehicle without touching any part of the car
• Landing with your feet together and both feet making contact with the ground at the same time–space between your feet can create two separate contact points and cause an electric shock
• Shuffling away from the car by sliding one foot forward along the length of the other and then switching, always keeping both feet on the ground and in contact with one another–get at least 30-35 feet away

Educate Yourself Further about Downed Power Lines

A motor vehicle accident is just one of many situations in which downed power lines can be life threatening. Most local utility companies publish information about how to remain safe and who to call when faced with downed or damaged electrical lines. You can’t count on having access to the information you need in the moment, and you may need to act quickly. So, educate yourself in advance. 

If you have any questions about a personal injury matter, call us today at 978-459-3085 or fill out our contact form.