Question: I have a new driver in the house and they asked a question that got me thinking. If someone has a crash and hits a power pole, what should they do in that situation?

Answer: If your car comes into contact with a utility pole, wire or power box, you should:

• Stay in your vehicle and call 911. 
• Only get out of the vehicle if it is on fire.
• If you must get out, jump from the vehicle with both feet together and shuffle your feet on the ground as you move away from the scene. 
• Always assume all wires and equipment are electrified.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on X @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).