Power lines become a hidden danger during storms, with heavy winds, rain, or lightning turning them into potential hazards. A fallen or malfunctioning power line can lead to severe injuries like burns, electrocution, or even tragic fatalities. Knowing how to avoid these risks and understanding who may be held liable if an accident occurs can be lifesaving—and it’s crucial for protecting your rights. Keep reading to learn more from our Florida personal injury lawyers.
Tips to avoid power line injuries during a storm
Preventing power line injuries during a storm starts with awareness and preparation. Here are steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Stay indoors during storms: Avoid venturing outside during severe weather unless absolutely necessary. Power lines are most dangerous when exposed to high winds or fallen debris.
- Avoid downed power lines: Treat every downed power line as live. Stay at least 30 feet away, and never attempt to move or touch a fallen line.
- Keep clear of conductive materials: Metal fences, wet ground, and trees near power lines can conduct electricity. Avoid these areas during a storm.
- Report downed lines immediately: Contact your local utility company or emergency services to report fallen or sparking power lines.
- Install surge protection: Use surge protectors to safeguard electrical devices and reduce the risk of indoor electrical fires caused by power surges.
What to do if a power line injury occurs
If you or someone you love suffers a power line injury, take these steps immediately:
- Call for emergency assistance: Contact 911 to ensure the victim receives medical attention quickly.
- Stay clear of the power line: Ensure the area remains safe for first responders by avoiding contact with the line or any surrounding conductive materials.
- Document the scene: If safe, take photos of the power line, the injury, and the surrounding area.
- Contact a power line injury lawyer: An experienced attorney can help determine liability and guide you through the legal process to seek compensation.
Who’s liable for power line injuries?
Liability for power line injuries during a storm depends on the specific circumstances. Potentially liable parties include:
- Utility companies: Utility companies are responsible for maintaining power lines and ensuring they are safe and properly installed. If negligence, such as failure to trim trees near power lines or repair faulty equipment, contributed to the injury, they may be held liable under Florida Statutes § 768.28.
- Property owners: If a power line is located on private property, the property owner may share responsibility for maintaining safe conditions, such as trimming nearby trees or securing equipment.
- Equipment manufacturers: If the injury was caused by a defective power line component, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
- Contractors: Contractors hired to install or maintain power lines may be held accountable if their negligence caused the hazard.
Compensation for power line injuries
Victims of power line injuries may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional impact of the injury.
- Wrongful death: Families of individuals who die from power line injuries may pursue compensation for their loss.
How Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can help
At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we have extensive experience representing victims of power line injuries. As trusted power line injury lawyers, we investigate the circumstances, determine liability, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Our team is dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and protecting your rights.
(H3) Contact us for a free consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered a power line injury during a storm, contact Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath at (561) 655-1990. Let our experienced power line injury lawyers provide the guidance you need to navigate the legal process and seek justice.
