A 17-year-old skateboarder is in the hospital with life-threatening injuries after being hit by a car on Saturday morning, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Before 7 a.m., the female teen was using the bicycle lane on Providence Lakes Road in Brandon and riding her skateboard when she was hit by a red Volkswagen Passat, according to reports.
The teen was taken to Tampa General Hospital.
The driver stayed at the scene and was not harmed.
It is unknown if the skateboard or the driver crossed the line separating the bicycle lane and the traffic lane.
Investigators do not believe speed, alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash, according to police.
The investigation into the crash is still ongoing.
Motorists have a duty to be on the lookout for any dangers. Sometimes motorists are distracted or are not expecting pedestrian traffic and may strike a skateboarder. This does not mean fault lies with the skateboarder. When a car hits a skateboarder, the driver may be held liable for the injuries that result. Our Tampa Bay Auto Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can help you determine who is at fault for the accident and whether you can seek compensation for damages.
Broken bones, sprains, strains, brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, and even death are all common after a skateboard vs. car accident. Hospital bills can quickly add up, and insurance companies may even try and blame the entire accident on the skateboarder. This is why you need to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected.
If you or your child have been injured in a skateboarding accident in the Tampa Bay area, let us help you. Call us today at 813-221-3200 or contact us online for a completely free consultation.