What to do with an electric vehicle after a serious crash
Safety advice from an electric vehicle specialist
An electric or hybrid vehicle can hide dangers you can’t see from the outside. A damaged high voltage battery or cable may still carry power. A damaged battery can give off harmful gases. It can also start a fire right away or later on. Let responders, the tow driver and the storage yard know the vehicle is electric or hybrid. [1, 2]
Stay well back at the scene
Once you’re out of the vehicle, don’t touch bare wires, battery parts, leaking fluid or damaged electrical equipment. Move away and call emergency services if you see smoke or sparks. Do the same if you hear odd noises from the battery or smell fumes. Keep clear of traffic as well as the vehicle. Give responders the make and model so they can pull up the right emergency guide. [1, 2]
Plan for towing and storage
Ask the tow company to follow the vehicle maker’s towing instructions. An electric vehicle with serious damage may need to be stored outdoors, away from buildings and other vehicles. Until a qualified inspection is done, keep a damaged vehicle out of your home garage and don’t charge it. If you think the battery is damaged, NHTSA advises contacting the dealer. [1, 2]
Have a qualified expert look it over
Tell the repair shop if the underside or the battery area took a hit, even if the car still turns on. Ask who will inspect the high voltage system. Find out what written clearance you need before you drive or charge it again. The emergency and repair instructions for your exact vehicle are the ones that count. Don’t take a missing warning light as a sign the battery is safe. [1, 2]
Questions for the tow or repair crew
- Where will the vehicle be kept?
- Who is qualified to inspect the high voltage system?
- When will it be safe to drive or charge again?
Share the exact make and model
Tell every responder and repair worker the vehicle’s exact make and model. [2]
Sources and further reading
Use this as general education on electric vehicle safety. Follow emergency responders and the maker’s guidance for your specific vehicle. Never inspect or fix damaged high voltage parts yourself.
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