Portland Garbage Truck Crash Offers Lesson For All Drivers

PORTLAND, OR – Portland Fire says that a crash Thursday morning offers an important lesson for all drivers. A garbage truck crashed into a power pole, knocking lines down.

Fire officials say that the driver was trapped inside the truck with live wires nearby.

It happened around 6 a.m. by 4341 Northeast 148th Avenue.

Get all the latest information on what's happening in your community by signing up for Patch's newsletters and breaking news alerts

Firefighters arrived, saw the live wire and immediately told the driver not to try to leave his truck.

They were concerned that the live wire could electrocute the driver.

A safety perimeter was set up until workers from Portland General Electric could shut off power to the lines.

The driver was then able to leave the truck safely.

Fire officials say that if you approach downed power lines, stay away from them. If you are in a vehicle that comes into contract with a live wire, stay inside and, if you do have to leave the vehicle, make sure that you jump with both feet together.

They say that it's important not allow yourself to be touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time.

Photo via Shutterstock.