78094156-260.1Virginia Decodedhttps://vacode.org2016Public Service CompaniesHeat, Light, Power, Water And Other Utility Companies GenerallyPipelines And Other WorksContract provisions exempting company from liability unlawful1964, c. 523.Peck Iron & Metal Co. v. Colonial Pipeline Co.146 S.E.2d 1691966-01-17https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/1364245/peck-iron-metal-co-v-colonial-pipeline-co/ . . . specify what provisions must be included, and § 56-260.1 was added to specify certain provisions . . . <abbr title="Court of Appeals">COA</abbr>Richardson-Wayland v. VEPCORecord No. 770534219 Va. 1981978-08-31https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/1334532/richardson-wayland-v-vepco/ . . . nor disapproval of this proposition. . . . <abbr title="Supreme Court of Virginia">SCV</abbr>http://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/56-260.1//56-260.1/56/10/5/56-260.1

No contract for an easement of right-of-way for a pipeline, power or telephone line, sewer, main or similar works shall contain any provision which purports to exempt the corporation erecting, laying or installing the same from liability for injuries sustained by any person or property by reason of the laying, constructing, maintaining, operating, repairing, altering, replacing or removal of, or any failure or defect in, such line, sewer, main or works. Any such provision in any such contract is hereby declared to be against public policy and shall be null and void and unenforceable; provided, that this provision shall not apply as to any cause of action arising prior to June 26, 1964.section

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