Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith SUED by man who lost his leg after the NBA star crashed his car… requiring an above-the-knee amputation
- Highsmith was cited by police in Miami on February 6 for reckless driving
- Alekxei Pino, 21 years old, is still in hospital and recovering from the accident
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Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith is being sued by the 21-year-old man whose leg was amputated as a result of a car crash with the NBA player.
Alekxei Pino filed the suit in Florida on Friday, claiming to have helped a stranded motorist on the evening of February 6 when Highsmith collided with him in his 2021 Audi A5.
According to the complaint, Highsmith was exceeding the speed limit before the crash, resulting in an above-the-knee amputation for Pino.
Pino says he suffered other injuries during the wreck and underwent multiple procedures as a result.
His lawyer, Manuel Dobrinsky, described a “very long road of rehabilitation ahead” for Pino – who is still recovering in hospital.
NBA star Haywood Highsmith is facing charges after a man lost his leg in a car accident
The lawsuit says Highsmith was driving recklessly and as a result is responsible for the damages
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages estimated at more than $50,000.
Pino’s family has set up a GoFundMe to help with his recovery process and hopes to raise $100,000.
According to a police report, Highsmith was driving at 45 mph in a 60 mph zone prior to the crash after the Heat defeated the Orlando Magic.
Police believe drugs and alcohol were not involved, but say Highsmith may have been distracted. As a result, he was cited for reckless driving.
The Miami Heat released a statement after the crash saying their “hearts go out to those who were injured.”
Highsmith did not play in a game against the San Antonio Spurs the night after the wreck, but did return on February 11 against the Boston Celtics.
This season, Highsmith is averaging 21 minutes per night and 5.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game. He played in 40 games and started 24.