Smith v. Aaron

Frank Holt, Justice.

The deceased, Robert Eugene Smith, was employed by appellees to operate a cotton picker. While operating the picker, the deceased raised the basket to unload its contents in a trailer. The basket became caught in overhead power lines. The deceased then stepped from the picker cab to the trailer and was instantly electrocuted. Admittedly, the work conditions near the high voltage lines did not comply with the safety requirements or standards of care prescribed by Ark. Stat. Ann. § 81-1401 et. seq. (Supp. 1973). This statute contains a penal provision and sets forth the…