If you experience an accident where your car hits and knocks down several utility poles, the most important thing is ‘safety from electrical currents’.”
If you hit a utility pole and it falls, follow these critical safety steps to avoid electrocution:
1. Stay Inside the Vehicle (Most Important)
Do not get out: The safest place is inside the car. Your vehicle and the ground around it may be charged with electricity.
Avoid contact: As long as you remain inside, you are generally safe from the electrical path to the ground.
Warn others: Shout to bystanders to stay at least 10 meters (35 feet) away from the vehicle and any downed lines.
2. Call for Professional Help
Contact Emergency Services: Immediately report the accident and specify that utility poles or power lines are involved.
Wait for the “All Clear”: Do not exit until utility professionals or first responders confirm the power has been de-energized.
3. Emergency Exit (Only if there is a FIRE)
If the car catches fire and you must leave, follow these specific movements to prevent electricity from flowing through your body:
Jump Clear: Open the door and jump out without touching the car and the ground at the same time.
Land with Feet Together: Ensure both feet hit the ground simultaneously.
Shuffle Away: Move away using small, shuffling steps (keeping both feet in contact with the ground) or “bunny hop” with feet together.
Distance: Continue until you are at least 15-30 meters (50-100 feet) away from the scene.
4. Legal and Financial Steps
Report Property Damage: In many areas, hitting a pole requires a police report for insurance claims.
Liability: Your liability insurance typically covers the cost of repairing or replacing the utility pole.
