What do I do if an Electric Vehicles (EV) is involved in an accident?
With more Electric Vehicles (EV) on the road, the chance you might encounter a mishap with one of them is also increasing. Be aware of the safety precautions unique to these types of automobiles.
- One of the characteristics of an Electric Vehicle is its lack of engine noise. In other words, an EV can be “running” or energized and not make any sound. When involved in an accident with an EV, the first course of action is to be sure the vehicle is safely turned off!
- EVs have a high-voltage electrical system with high-voltage batteries, cables and associated components. As a car owner or first responder, be sure you’re familiar with where these are located to steer clear of them. Fortunately, many automakers have color-coded the cables in a bright orange making them easier to spot.
- Be sure to alert rescuers of the EV, if able, so that accidents can be avoided. Rescuers trying to free a person from the vehicle could accidentally cut into the wires and cause a fire or worse and both the rescuer and the occupants could be injured.
- Bad news is, lithium battery fires can happen and foam or other chemicals do nothing to put them out. The good news is, they can be handled with water! Apply ample water directly to the battery compartment to extinguish a blaze.
- Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for specific details about your automobile. Oftentimes, first responders guides and rescue sheets are available in the manual and online.
What do I do if a Power Line is involved in an accident?
As drivers navigate the road of life and journey down the highway, sometimes accidents happen. Indeed, life can be unpredictable, but knowing some basic safety precautions before an accident happens could help in the aftermath. Whether a minor fender bender or a more significant crash, colliding with a power pole or other vehicles makes the situation more complicated.
If you’ve driven into an electric pole, or you’ve come across downed lines, assume the lines are energized. Even if they aren’t buzzing, humming or sparking, they can still be carrying dangerously powerful electric current.
- STAY AWAY, CALL 911 AND GVEC AT 800.223.4832
- Never go near or touch an overhead line if it has been brought down by an automobile or has fallen. As a general rule, try to remain at least 35 feet away.
- Don’t touch any person, animal or object in direct contact with a downed line. Never touch or try to move a downed line, including with an object like a broom or stick.
- Avoid driving over downed power lines.
- If you’re inside a vehicle in contact with a downed line, don’t leave the vehicle. Stay inside and avoid touching the outside metal.
- If you must exit the vehicle because of fire – the only way to do so safely is to jump out without touching any wires or the vehicle’s exterior, land with your feet together, and then shuffle away without removing your feet from the ground.
