Power Lines Fall Across I-10 in Converse, Causing 4 Vehicles to Crash

According to a KSAT News report, a downed power line on I-10 caused four vehicles to crash in Converse today.

Police reported the accident happened at around 8:40 a.m. today, July 2nd, on I-10 near FM 1518 in Converse. An SUV reportedly lost control and rolled over on I-10 after a power line fell across the westbound and eastbound lanes. All of the occupants of the SUV were able to get out on their own. Following the SUV, three other vehicles hit the power lines, and the vehicles sustained damage. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the downed power lines is under investigation. As of 1:30 p.m., more than 4,200 customers remained without power.

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Did You Know?

Nearly 20,000 car accidents in Texas last year were caused by faulty evasive action.

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Downed Power Lines and Car Accidents: What You Need to Know

Whether caused by storms, crashes, or construction, downed power lines are one of the most dangerous hazards you can face on the road. If you’re ever involved in an accident with one, knowing how to react can save your life—and understanding liability could help you recover compensation.

What to Do If Power Lines Fall on Your Car

Always assume downed power lines are live and deadly. Here’s how to stay safe:

Stay Inside the Vehicle

Unless there’s an immediate danger (like fire), do not get out. Call 911 and warn others to stay away.

If You Must Exit

Use the jump and shuffle method:

1. Open the door, placing both feet on the car frame.

2. Remove loose clothing.

3. Jump clear of the car without touching the ground and car at the same time.

4. Shuffle away with your feet close together—30 feet if dry, 60 feet if wet.

Need visuals? Here’s a helpful visual step-by-step guide of these steps.

What Injuries Can Downed Power Lines Cause?

Electrical contact with downed lines can lead to:

• Electrical burns

• Cardiac arrest

• Brain damage

• Muscle, tissue, and nerve damage

Even without direct contact, nearby arcing electricity can cause severe or fatal injuries.

Who Is Responsible in a Power Line Accident?

Liability depends on the circumstances. In Texas, to claim compensation, you must prove:

• A duty of care was owed to you

• That duty was breached (negligence)

• That breach caused your injury

• You suffered damages as a result

Depending on the case, the responsible parties might include:

• A utility company that failed to maintain or repair the power lines

• A driver who crashed into a utility pole

• A construction company that improperly handled the nearby infrastructure

Examples:

• A utility company ignores a known hazard → utility may be liable

• A car hits a pole, knocking lines onto your car → the driver may be liable

• A contractor causes a collapse during road work → the company may be liable

Injured by Downed Power Lines? Call Shaw.

If you were hurt in a crash involving fallen power lines, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Room Visits

• Ambulance Transportation

• Ongoing Medical Treatment

• Missed Work

• Pain and Suffering

• PTSD or Emotional Trauma

• And More

Let us help you figure out your legal options—for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Texas personal injury attorney. No fees. No obligations. Just the expert legal help you need. Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

 

¹KSAT News report

²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors (2024)