No car accident is ideal, but ones involving power poles can become very serious in a hurry. Downed power lines present dangerous risks for severe injuries or even death. If you’re ever
involved in a crash involving power poles, ALWAYS follow these important safety rules.
Power pole crash
- STAY in your vehicle. Downed power lines can energize the ground around your vehicle, even if you don’t hear buzzing or see sparks. Your vehicle is the safest place to be. Only exit your vehicle if you see fire or smoke by using the shuffle method. (See How to Do the Shuffle.)
- WARN bystanders to stay away.
- CALL 911. Once utility workers arrive, wait for them to de-energize the downed lines.
Visit lge-ku.e-smartdrivers.com to download infographics and for more utility safety best practices when driving.
Know how to do the shuffle
Downed power lines can energize the ground around your car. If you get out of your car and walk across an energized area, electricity may travel up one leg and down through the other. This could result in a serious or fatal electrical shock. Shuffling your feet when exiting your vehicle keeps one foot in a similar voltage zone as the other foot, making electrical shock less likely. Remember to exit the vehicle ONLY if you notice smoke or fire.
If you must exit the vehicle, follow these steps:
- JUMP clear of your vehicle. DO NOT touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
- LAND with your feet together and shuffle away with small movements. Keep your feet close together and on the ground at all times. DO NOT allow the heel of one foot to pass the toes of the other.
- STAY at least 100 feet away from the crash area until utility personnel tell you it’s safe.
