Who Is Liable for Injuries Suffered in a Skateboarding Accident?

 Posted on June 30, 2020 in Personal Injury

Considered to be among the 10 most popular sports globally, skateboarding has become a multi-billion dollar industry. It is often considered an extreme sport because of the risk involved and the nature of some of the injuries that can occur. Skateboarders can range in age from young kids to senior citizens. Some individuals may use a skateboard as a form of exercise or even a mode of transportation to get to and from school or work. Safety precautions such as wearing a helmet are important to prevent injuries. However, in some cases, a skateboarder may be involved in an accident that is caused by another party due to negligent actions.

Reckless Driving Behaviors

There are many ways that a skateboarder can be hurt, including being struck by a vehicle. When a driver of an automobile is under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol, his or her ability to operate a vehicle safely is significantly impaired. Being intoxicated also reduces a motorist’s reaction time and decision-making abilities. In certain situations, a skateboarder can be hit by a car if the driver loses control and swerves or veers off the road onto a sidewalk. Also, the force of the impact and the fact that the person on the skateboard lacks protection compared to a vehicle can result in serious to life-threatening injuries. Some of these injuries may include:

• Broken arms or legs
• Concussion
• Abrasions/contusions
• Cuts/lacerations
• Bruising
• Internal bleeding
• Back or neck damage

If a driver is found to be at fault for an accident due to controlled substance use or traffic violations such as speeding, he or she may be ordered to pay compensation to the skateboarding victim.

Defective Parts

Before going for a ride on a skateboard, bicycle, or e-scooter, a user should inspect the device to make sure it is in proper working order. Even if the apparatus appears to be safe, it could malfunction once you hit the road on it. For example, a wheel could come loose, sending the rider flying into vehicle traffic or pedestrians out for a stroll. In these scenarios, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) may be held accountable for injuries a rider suffers. When seeking compensation for damages, an experienced personal injury attorney can help a victim prove that a company or retailer was negligent. If the company failed to adequately inspect the skateboard before it hit store shelves, they may be ordered to reimburse an injured party.

Contact a Wheaton Personal Injury Lawyer

Although many people may think a skateboarding accident is minor, the injuries sustained can be devastating, especially if a skateboarder is struck by a vehicle. At the Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C., we have more than 20 years of experience in securing compensation for personal injury victims who are hurt in all types of accidents. Our competent and dedicated Bloomingdale personal injury attorneys will fight for your rights so you can concentrate on recovering. To schedule your free consultation, call us today at 630-665-5678.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=2017&SeqStart=22050000&SeqEnd=22150000

https://skateboardsafety.org/injury-statistics/