Electric poles add a new level of danger in car accidents.
Driver Hospitalized After 18-Wheeler Crashes Into Multiple Electric Poles in Atascosa County
According to a report from KSAT News, the driver of an 18-wheeler was hospitalized and several counties experienced power outages after a crash in Atascosa County.¹
Authorities say the accident happened around 5 a.m. Wednesday, March 4th, near the intersection of FM 791 and FM 2924 in southern Atascosa County. Investigators reported that the truck driver ran a stop sign before crashing into multiple electric utility poles.
The 34-year-old driver suffered serious injuries and was transported to a hospital.
The crash damaged several power lines, causing power disruptions across four counties. The Texas Department of Public Safety urged drivers to avoid the area for several hours while crews worked to repair the damaged infrastructure and clear the roadway.
Did You Know?
In 2024, 15,579 crashes across Texas were caused by drivers disregarding a stop sign, according to data from the Texas Department of Transportation.²
How Power Lines Affect Car Accidents in Texas
When a vehicle crashes into a utility pole, the danger does not necessarily end with the collision. Downed power lines can create a serious hazard for drivers, passengers, first responders, and anyone nearby.
Power lines may still be energized after they fall. Contact with a live wire—or even standing too close to it—can result in severe electrical shock, fires, or additional injuries.
Why Downed Power Lines Are So Dangerous
Electrical lines carry extremely high voltage. Even if a line appears inactive, it may still be transmitting electricity.
When power lines fall during a crash, several risks can develop quickly. A downed line may:
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Electrify the ground surrounding the wire
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Start fires if it contacts dry materials or vehicles
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Energize nearby metal objects, including vehicles
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Create additional traffic hazards if drivers attempt to avoid the area suddenly
Because electricity can travel through the ground, a person does not have to touch the wire directly to be seriously injured.
What to Do If Power Lines Are Involved in a Crash
If a crash causes power lines to fall onto or near a vehicle, the safest action is usually to remain inside the vehicle until emergency crews arrive.
Drivers and passengers should:
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Call 911 immediately to report the crash
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Stay inside the vehicle if a power line is touching it
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Warn others to stay far away from the area
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Wait for utility crews or emergency responders to confirm the electricity has been shut off
Leaving the vehicle too soon could expose someone to electrical current.
The only exception is if the vehicle catches fire. In that situation, safety experts advise jumping clear of the vehicle without touching the ground and the vehicle at the same time, then shuffling away with small steps to avoid creating a path for electrical current.
Injuries Linked to Electrical Accidents
Electrical exposure can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries. These injuries often extend beyond visible burns because electricity can damage internal tissues and organs.
Common injuries include:
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Severe electrical burns
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Nerve damage
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Heart rhythm disturbances
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Muscle damage
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Secondary injuries caused by falls or sudden movements
People who survive electrical injuries may require long-term medical care or rehabilitation.
Preventing Crashes Involving Utility Poles
Many crashes involving power poles occur at intersections or rural roads where drivers may overlook traffic signs or misjudge roadway conditions.
Drivers can reduce the risk of these accidents by slowing down at intersections, paying close attention to stop signs and signals, and staying alert on unfamiliar roads. Avoiding distractions while driving is also critical, especially during early morning hours when visibility may be reduced.
Even a single mistake—such as failing to stop at an intersection—can result in serious injuries and widespread disruptions to surrounding communities.
Injured in an Accident Involving Downed Power Lines? Call Shaw.
If you were injured in an accident involving electrical hazards or downed power lines, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:
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Medical bills and emergency treatment
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Pain, suffering, and long-term injuries
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Lost wages during recovery
We’ll help you find out for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to talk to an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio about your legal options. No fees, no pressure—just the expert advice you need.
We look forward to serving you.