When a Skateboard Injury Becomes a Claim

Bluegrass artist Billy Strings postponed three sold-out shows at the Fishers Event Center this spring after breaking his leg while skateboarding. His injury was self-inflicted, and he has said so publicly. Many skateboarding injuries in Indiana are not, and that difference determines whether an injured rider has any legal options.

What Happened Before the Fishers Shows

Strings broke his leg attempting a trick backstage after a concert in Charlottesville, Virginia. According to WISH-TV’s coverage of the postponement, he moved his Virginia and Indiana dates to August, and the Fishers venue said original tickets would be honored on the new dates. In a message to fans, he took full responsibility for the fall.

That candor is worth noting. A person hurt while doing something voluntary, with no one else’s carelessness involved, generally has no personal injury claim. There’s simply no one to hold responsible.

When Someone Else May Share Responsibility

Not every skateboarding injury looks like that one. Riders are often hurt because of choices made by other people or companies. Common examples include:

• A driver who fails to yield or turns into a rider in a crosswalk
• A defective board, truck, or wheel that breaks during normal use
• Broken pavement or debris on private property open to the public
• Poorly maintained ramps or surfaces at a public skate park

Each situation calls for a different analysis. A product failure may point to a manufacturer or seller. A crash with a vehicle usually involves the driver’s insurer. And in nearly every case, the rider’s own conduct will be examined closely.

Claims Involving Public Property

Injuries in city parks, on public trails, or on sidewalks raise a separate issue. Claims against Indiana cities, towns, and counties generally require written notice within 180 days under the Indiana Tort Claims Act. That window is short. Missing it can end a claim before it starts.

Protecting Your Options After a Skateboarding Accident

Skateboarding is common on neighborhood streets, trails, and park paths throughout Fishers. When a fall is caused by someone else, the steps taken early often shape what happens later.

Photograph the scene and the board. Keep damaged equipment exactly as it is. Get names and contact information from witnesses, and see a doctor promptly, even if the injury seems minor at first.

A cracked truck or an uneven ramp is easy to overlook in the moment. Identifying those details early is one of the first things a Fishers, IN personal injury lawyer will focus on.

Getting an Honest Evaluation

Not every fall leads to a valid claim, and a good attorney will tell you when one doesn’t. A personal injury lawyer in Fishers can help separate an unfortunate accident from one caused by negligence.

If you or your child was hurt while skateboarding and you believe someone else played a role, Pavlack Law, LLC can review the details and explain your options. Contact our team to arrange a time to talk.