customers without power from accidents in 2020
hit SMUD equipment in 2020
in repair costs per pole
Car pole safety
We replace a power pole about every other day because of a car accident.
Your safety is our first priority
We're seeing more cars hit our power poles, often because of distracted driving.
We don't want to see anyone get hurt. 4 lives were lost in 2020.
Watch our video or read below on what to do if you hit a power pole.
Please steer clear of the poles and drive safely.
Tips in case you hit a power pole
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Stay in your car and call 911. | ||
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If the car is on fire, jump out, |
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Get at least 40 feet away and do not go back. |
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Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. |  |
Call 911 and warn others to stay away from the area. |
On the road
We want to keep you safe, both in and out of your home. When driving:
Be safe always
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Pay attention to and obey all speed limits and signs.
- If you are drowsy, pull off the road.
- Check both sides of the street before crossing at a green light.
- Make sure that you and your passengers are always wearing seatbelts.
Avoid distractions
- Use your cell phone for emergency situations only and after pulling over.
- Limit the number of passengers and activity inside the car.
- Avoid eating while driving.
- Do not attempt to multi-task while operating a vehicle.
Take extra care
- Adjust your driving during extreme weather conditions.
- If you have to be somewhere on time, leave early.
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How many? Total car accidents involving SMUD equipment:
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How serious?
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When? Most car accidents with SMUD equipment happen December - May. |
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Who pays? Drivers are ultimately responsible for all the damages related to the accident. |
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Outages 4-6% of all outages are caused by a car accident with SMUD equipment.
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How much? It costs about $15,000 to replace a power pole.
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If a power pole is hit multiple times, we look at solutions to reduce the risk that it will be hit again:
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Install higher visibility reflective strips. All new |
Install large, protective barriers around the pole. |
Relocate the pole or structure. |
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Other resources