Knowing what to do if you’re in an accident and power lines come down on or near your vehicle is essential. The car can become energized, but people inside will remain safe if they don’t get out of the car. Downed power lines still may be energized. The electric current from a downed line can shock or electrocute people as far as 35 feet away from the line. If there is no smoke or fire, stay put and call 911 immediately. Below are more safety tips for a car accident involving power lines.
- If you see someone in direct or indirect contact with a downed line, do not touch them.
- Never attempt to use an object like a broom or stick to move a downed power line or anything else in contact with it. That item will become energized.
- If you see bystanders running toward you to help, tell them to stay away from the vehicle so they do not get electrocuted.
What if my car is on fire and I need to exit the vehicle?
- Open the door without touching the metal door frame.
- Jump with both feet together so both feet land at the same time.
- Shuffle away so the toe of one-foot shuffles forward along the length of the other foot, ensuring both are in constant contact and always touching the ground.
- Keep shuffling 30 or more feet until you are safely away from the car and power line.
- Please do not attempt to get back into a vehicle in contact with a power line after you are safely away.
