Keegan v. Grant County Public Utility District No. 2

The Grant County Public Utility District 2 (PUD) appeals a jury finding of negligence stemming from the operation of its electrical system. We affirm as to liability but reverse and remand on the issue of damages.

The PUD operated a 3-wire overhead electrical distribu tion line near a farm owned by Dwight and Elizabeth Keegan but occupied by their son and his wife, Patrick and Denise Keegan. The electrical line ran near a row of poplar trees 100 to 150 feet in height. The PUD had an easement for removal of all brush and trees which might interfere with the construction, maintenance, and…