Heat F Haywood Highsmith sued by victim of crash that led to partial amputation

Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith is being sued by the man he hit with a car earlier this month, an incident that led to the man's right leg being partially amputated.

Alekxei Pino, 21, has hired a personal injury law firm and filed a civil suit against Highsmith, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.

At the time of the incident on the night of Feb. 6, Pino had reportedly pulled over to aid another driver whose car was disabled on the road. The car's lights were not on while Pino was helping. Highsmith was driving home from a Heat game on Feb. 6 when he struck both the car and Pino.

Highsmith was allegedly driving 45 mph in a 40 zone. The resulting impact sent the car flying about 50 yards before stopping. Pino was hospitalized in critical condition, with a fractured left leg, possibly broken left arm and enough injuries to require the amputation of his right leg.

Highsmith, who stayed at the scene to help Pino, was later cited for careless driving, but currently faces no criminal charges. He was reportedly not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Pino's lawsuit, which is seeking damages in excess of $100,000, accuses him of speeding, per the Herald:

The Herald notes that under Florida law, drivers must move over a lane for disabled vehicles on the side of a street. If moving over isn't possible, motorists should drive 20 mph under the posted limit.

Pino, who is still hospitalized, had a GoFundMe created by his family over the weekend to help with his medical bills and other expenses stemming from the crash. As of Tuesday evening, the fundraiser has drawn in more than $28,000.

Per Spotrac, Highsmith has made a total of $4.2 million in his NBA career through the 2023-24 season, not counting endorsement deals and other income streams. He sat out one game after the incident and has played three games since.