Discovery Bay Truck Accident Leads to Power Outages
Residential smart meters exploded and power was lost in the area of Discovery Bay after a semi hit a power pole on Highway 4 recently. The power company supplying the communities has reassured homeowners that they will handle customer claims for damages due to the smart meters.
Details
The accident happened in the vicinity of Byron Highway and Cross Creek Road at about 10:30 in the morning of October 26, when a big truck hit a utility pole, breaking it in half, according to a representative of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Power lines were knocked down, and in the process, high-voltage power lines with a 60,000-volt flow mixed with those powering residential lines carrying 21,000 volts, causing a surge in power.
Authorities supplied no explanation as to why the accident happened. Further information as to the involvement of alcohol or drugs in the incident was also not given.
The Aftermath of the Accident
The surge resulted in a power outage to 2,900 homes and businesses in the area along with the explosion of some home smart meters, a spokesman for the fire district in East Contra Costa County said. Residents said the explosion was loud, and one homeowner described her electrical outlets as making a popping sound with one shooting out flames. Debris caused by the destruction of the smart meters was found scattered about by residents. In addition, a middle school, the Excelsior, was forced to close due to the power outage. However, power was reportedly quickly restored to a majority of customers.
Injuries Due to the Accident
Authorities reported the big rig driver was not injured in the crash. No one else was hurt in the incident.
Utility Company
The Pacific Gas and Electric Company has said that customers can submit claims for damage due to the accident to them even though the problems originated with the big rig accident. Customers were directed to the company’s website for more information about the filing process. Claim forms are available online, and once received by PG&E, a letter of acknowledgment will be sent to claimants as soon as possible. The company said each claim is evaluated fairly, and resolution is based on a determination of negligence.
Destroying Property
Under California Vehicle Code 17150, a driver is responsible for property damage caused by negligence. This applies to personal damage as well as that done to roadside structures. Even cleanup of an area after the accident, including roadway debris, can be the responsibility of a negligent driver.
Liability for Negligent Driving
Negligence in an accident, once proven, translates into damage liability. In the case of property damage, the property owner must show that the damage is linked to the accident. For instance, if a car ran off the road due to a drunk driving accident and hit a mailbox on your property, you have the right to file a claim for restoration of the mailbox. In such a case, the mailbox would not have been damaged but for the accident.
Gathering Evidence
It is important to show the damage and the circumstances surrounding an accident. Taking pictures of the damaged property is essential. If your cell phone has a video or picture function with a date and time stamp, all the better. In our example above, it would be important to show the position of the vehicle, if possible, and any roadway marks leading to the mailbox.
Presenting Evidence
A personal injury attorney is adept at presenting evidence in insurance claims and lawsuits so as to show negligence. This results in faster resolution of claims. It also provides a necessary element in proving fault in a court of law.
Discovery Bay Truck Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Discovery Bay truck accident lawyer. Proving negligence in personal injury cases is an important part of the legal process. If your property was damaged in an accident, an injury lawyer can help you get full compensation for the damages. Call me at (925) 428-5220 locally or (800) 404-5400 nationwide for friendly and free advice. If you’d rather, you can use my online contact form.
I’ve helped many Californians, including those in Discovery Bay, hurt in accidents since 1982, helping them and their families recover after traumatic injuries, such as brain trauma from falls, car accident injuries and wrongful death.
Trial attorneys who resolve cases for $1 million or more can be inducted into the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. I am pleased to say I am a member of the great state of California.
You might want more information about my law office. A great place to start your research is by visiting Avvo, Google or Yelp. You will be able to read about my past client experiences.
If you are interested in prior case results, go to the settlements and verdicts page right here on AutoAccident.com, your resource for information on personal injuries and wrongful death.