Skateboarder Hit Near Bel Air High School: Report

BEL AIR, MD - A skateboarder was reportedly injured in a crash near Bel Air High School Thursday afternoon.

The 16-year-old skateboarder was taken to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center for treatment after the crash, according to The Aegis, which reported he was hit by a Volkswagen on Kenmore Avenue at 2:05 p.m. when he skated between vehicles about 180 feet from the crosswalk. Read the full story from The Aegis.

The collision reported in Bel Air occurred just after the school day; Bel Air High School dismisses at 2 p.m.

This is only the second week of school, since public schools statewide started on Sept. 5 this year.

"Drivers need to remember that children will be traveling to and from school, to always stop for pedestrians, be aware of school buses in the traffic mix, and be prepared for extra traffic and possibly traffic delays," the Maryland State Highway Administration advised drivers as the school year gets underway.

In the past, the Baltimore Metropolitan Council has partnered with Harford County around the start of the school year to bring its Street Smart campaign to educate pedestrians and drivers about their responsibilities.

"Be extra attentive and slow down in school and work zones where increased pedestrian presence is likely," state officials advise. In addition to pedestrians, bicycles and skateboards may be traveling amid the traffic.

Pxeople on skateboards have not traditionally been considered the same as pedestrians when it comes to crosswalks. However, a new Maryland law took effect in May granting bicyclists and those on human-propelled vehicles with at least two wheels the same protections as pedestrians in crosswalks.

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After the crash, Bel Air police advised The Aegis drivers should always stop at crosswalks during dismissal.

File photo by Elizabeth Janney.