11-year-old Kyle Glover, stepson to R&B superstar Usher Raymond, sustained a massive head injury on Friday, July 6 while inner tubing at Atlanta’s Lake Lanier.
According to the incident report by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Glover and another friend were being towed on an inner tube by another boat at approximately 3:25 p.m. ET when a Jet Ski crashed into the juveniles. Glover was hit in the head and knocked unconscious.
Both of the injured children were flown to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egelston Hospital. On Sunday, doctors declared the 11-year-old brain dead. This condition is used to describe patients who cease to have brain activity, are in a coma, and are no longer breathing by themselves. The second victim, a 15-year-old girl, suffered a cut to the head and a broken arm.
The watercraft’s operator was identified as Jeffrey S. Hubbard, a friend of the family. Alcohol and drugs did not play a factor in this accident.
Despite the fact that Usher and ex-wife Tameka Raymond are currently undergoing a divorce, both are said to be at the child’s bedside.
The Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers sends our prayers to the victim’s family and friends.
We understand how difficult it is to cope with a tragedy that could have been prevented. In 2003, our firm handled a similar case on Mission Bay in San Diego, after a Jet Ski struck our client while being pulled on an inner tube. At the time and even today, California residents are not required to carry personal watercraft (PWC) insurance for their Jet Skis. However, many other states require that you carry the minimum of liability and collision coverage when owning or leasing a Jet Ski.
Though boating and Jet Ski insurance are not required by law, you are liable for any damages you cause. Insurance for boats and watercraft is generally inexpensive compared to auto insurance, and it can protect you and those around you in the event of an accident. If you are considering buying a Jet Ski, we highly recommend that you get PWC insurance and learn the proper safety guidelines before you get in the water.
For any questions about California boating rules and regulations, contact our San Diego boat accident injury lawyers toll-free at (888) 233-5020.
