Car accidents involving poles
If you come across a downed line, keep as far away from it as you can. Never touch a downed line or anything near it. Assume any downed line is an energized power line.
If a power line falls on your car while you are driving, slowly continue on to move completely clear of it (avoid driving over it). If your car is immobilized, stay in it until help arrives.
If the downed line causes a car fire, escape the vehicle by jumping clear of the car with both feet together. Note the following safety rules:
- Keep both feet together as you jump.
- Keep your arms crossed over your chest as you jump.
- Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
- Once you land on the ground with both feet together, quickly shuffle 30 feet away from the car.
- Do not walk or separate your feet as you move away from the vehicle.
If a car hits a power pole, knocking down power lines, call 911 and PSE's Customer Service at 1.888.225.5773 immediately. Never try to open a car door if there are live wires and stay well clear of the vehicle.