Marc has found the Nebraska diggers site before I even saw this topic.
Calling the one call system only makes sense.
The service is free they just need 48 hrs notice, is legally required (or you pay for any damage and may get a fine) and makes a job a bit safer.
The only cost is when you have private utilities and or power/phone across a customers property ( eg parking lot lites) and need a private locate. It's still a lot cheaper than hitting a live line and then having to fix it or pay some one to fix it. Especally when hitting some thing is going to mess up your scheduled work.
One company around here did not get a locate and hit a gas line. The Natural gas followed the line into a building under construction that was 95% complete. The building exploded when the water heater turned on. That company got to replace the building and also pay the costs for one h*** of a lawsuit.
