A car accident can happen so quickly, yet the final seconds may seem to be in slow motion as the car and its passengers jolt upon contact. Such an accident can inflict serious injury and damage, and when the car wreck involves power poles, there is an added danger.
    Knowing what actions to take to stay safe can make the difference between life and death. After a car wreck, it is natural for people to want to get out of the car to assess damage to themselves as well as the vehicle. However, when the wreck involves power poles and lines, that is the exact wrong thing to do.
    Should you be involved in an automobile wreck with a power pole, Safe Electricity provides the following safety information:
    • Stay in the car. Call 911 to have the utility notified.
    • Do not leave the vehicle until utility professionals have de-energized the line and they advise you that it is safe to do so.
    • If you must exit the vehicle because it is on fire, jump clear of it with your feet together and without touching the vehicle and ground at the same time. Keeping your feet together, “bunny hop” to safety. Doing this will ensure that you will not have different strengths of electric current running from one foot to another.
    • Be aware that, after an accident with a pole, wires can fall at any time.  
    • Downed lines can sometimes show they are live by arcing and sparking with electricity, but this is not always the case. Treat all downed wires as though they are energized.  
    • Remember, most power lines are not insulated. The coating on the lines is for weather proofing and will not offer any protection from the electrical current.
    • The tires of the vehicle do not insulate it from electrical dangers. Follow the above safety precautions even if the car has rolled and is upside down or on its side. The vehicle is the path to ground for the electrical current. So while you remain in the car, you are safe. If you step out of the car, you are in danger of becoming the path to ground.  
    Also be cautious if you witness an accident involving a vehicle and downed lines. Stay back, and warn others to stay away. Make sure the occupants of the car stay inside the vehicle until the utility has arrived to de-energize the lines.