Pierce v. Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Opinion

SIMS, J.

In this indisputably shocking case we hold that a consumer, who was injured when a mechanical failure in an electric utility transformer sent 7,000 volts of electricity into her home, may state a cause of action against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG & E) for strict liability in tort.

*74Factual and Procedural Background

A lightning storm struck the Meridian area of Sutter County on the afternoon of November 21, 1978. Several PG & E power transformers were struck and damaged by lightning, including two on plaintiffs’ property. Plaintiffs’ home lost its electricity.

Plaintiff…