Hello from Asheville, North Carolina. I recently had time to personally get to know Hurricane Helene and watch people make huge mistakes with trucks. The first thing I need to share based on driver mistakes is why you need to avoid driving over a downed power line. 

Is driving over a downed power line dangerous? 

Yes, driving over a downed power line is dangerous. As a general rule of thumb, pedestrians and drivers should stay at least 30 feet away from downed distribution lines and 100 feet from downed transmission lines. 

Always assume that low-hanging or downed lines are energized and dangerous. It can be difficult to tell if they have power. They might not spark, smoke, or make noise. 

Lines that you believe to be dead could become energized during efforts to restore power or the incorrect use of generators. Plus, the line could be electrifying objects around it, like fences and other metal objects. 

If you drive over a line, the line could get tangled in your wheels or under your chassis. This may lead to pulling poles, cables, and other electrical equipment down. It can also cause your tires to catch on fire, melt, or explode. 

Also, if your car comes into contact with a downed power line then it could become live. You will want to remain calm and stay inside your vehicle as electricity passes through to the ground. 

Call or text 911 as soon as you spot a downed line. Even if you lose phone service, you should have enough signal to text 911. 

If the line is on your car, wait for help to arrive. Don’t exit your SUV until the lines have been safely removed. 

Also, if you need to get out of your truck or car due to a fire or tire explosion, use caution. You will want to stand in the door frame and jump away from your vehicle. Don’t touch the ground and your vehicle at the same time. 

People want to get out to find phone service or hoard supplies after a bad storm. It’s hard to resist surveying damage, but it’s best to stay out of the way so rescues and repairs can happen.