Downed power lines totaled my car. Is the power company/ township liable for damages?
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Downed power lines totaled my car. Is the power company/ township liable for damages?
A power line came down last weekend, and landed on my parked car. The car caught
fire and was totaled, and a number of personal effects were also damaged. I was
not present at the time, but the police indicated over the phone that wind may
have been to blame for the wire coming down. My question is, is the power company
or the township liable for any damages, or does this fall under act of god?
Asked on May 19, 2016 under Accident Law, New Jersey
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
The owner of the wires (presumably the power company) is only liable if they were at fault in causing the wires to fall, such as by not performing regular maintenance or not making repairs after someone phoned in that the wires or poles seemed to be damaged. But if there didn't do anything wrong and it was just high wind, they are not liable, and you could only seek compensation from your own insurance, if you have applicable coverage.
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