RSSFlorida Skateboarder Struck and Killed Friday Night
A man on his skateboard was struck and killed late Friday night while riding down Clubhouse Road in Lakeland, according to Polk County police. Scott Michael Sherman, of Lakeland, was hit by Terrance Rashon Green, also of Lakeland, near Harrell’s Nursery Road. Green stopped and tried to aid Sherman after he hit him, but Sherman was pronounced dead at the scene. A review of the area by investigators reveals that Green was not speeding at the time and that visibility was low due to a lack of street lights in the area. Polk County authorities have indicated that the investigation is ongoing and it may be some time while they sort out the situation.
For Florida motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and even skateboarders present a unique hazard. Though cyclists that travel over Florida roads do have to obey many of the same traffic laws that motorists do, they don’t often follow them as they should. Not to mention that any of these small targets are grossly overmatched by the average automobile in terms of size and speed. Though the skateboarder that was killed Friday night was in his twenties, many of the individuals sharing the road with motorists are young and may make poor decisions when faced with unfamiliar situations. This combination of inexperience and size mismatch can be a disaster waiting to happen.
There are several ways to protect yourself and your loved ones who may be out there sharing the road with drivers who may or may not be distracted themselves while operating on the road. Wearing reflective clothing and travelling in well-lit areas are great safety tips. Cyclists and skateboarders should always wear a helmet and protective pads or clothing. You should always familiarize yourself with the intended route and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t wear earphones or anything that could jeopardize your ability to recognize sounds that may alert you to a potential problem. Careful planning and remaining alert can be the difference between reaching your destination safely and not reaching it at all.
Call the Law Offices of James O. Cunningham, P.A. immediately at 877-FL-INJURY (877-354-6587) if you, or a loved one have been injured in an accident.
James O. Cunningham
Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.
Mr. Cunningham is an excellent and knowledgeable attorney.