What instructions should be given to a haul truck driver if a power line is snagged on the cab of the vehicle?

• A. Exit the vehicle immediately
• B. Drive away slowly from the line
• C. Stay seated until the electrical crew has disconnected the power
• D. Call for help and wait outside

Answer: (C)

When dealing with a situation where a power line is snagged on the cab of a haul truck, the safest course of action for the driver is to remain seated until the electrical crew has disconnected the power. This instruction is based on the principle that the vehicle itself can provide a degree of safety as it acts as a Faraday cage, which can help protect the driver from electric shock as long as the ground is not in contact with the vehicle.

Exiting the vehicle in such a situation can be extremely dangerous. A person stepping out could complete the circuit between the power line and the ground, resulting in severe injury or fatality due to electric shock. Therefore, it's critical for the driver to remain inside where they are protected until experts can safely resolve the situation.

The other choices suggest actions that could put the driver at risk. Driving away slowly may not guarantee safety, as the electricity could still pose a threat while the vehicle is in motion. Calling for help and then waiting outside diminishes the level of safety provided by staying inside the vehicle. Hence, the most appropriate and safest instruction is to stay seated until assistance arrives.