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Citation |
Najafi FT, Nassar FE, Kaczorowski P. Transp. Res. Rec. 1993; 1401: 111-116. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 1993, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing) |
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DOI |
unavailable |
PMID |
unavailable |
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Abstract |
Although many statistical data are gathered on pole accidents, very little information is available on the tort liability associated with utility pole accidents. Tort information is difficult to obtain. No organizations keep track of tort claims against public agencies, and utilities are generally reluctant to disclose tort information for fear of jeopardizing their defense against similar claims. A continuing study conducted at the University of Florida to assess pole-related tort liability in Florida is reported. It was found that for the state and most cities, tort liability related to pole accidents is minimal. Utilities' liability presents a mixed picture. Florida court rulings related to pole accident claims have so far been favorable to utilities and public agencies. If this situation changes, however, liability cost can increase significantly in the future, as is the trend in some other states. Therefore, a prudent policy to deal with pole-related tort liability consists of developing guidelines to relocate hazardous poles and to maintain a data base containing tort information and summaries of related court rulings. Language: en |