Miami Heat’s Haywood Highsmith sued by 21-year-old who lost his leg in car accident

The 21-year-old male who suffered a partial amputation of his leg in a motor vehicle accident earlier this month is suing Miami Heat forward Haywood Highsmith, TMZ Sports reported Tuesday.

Alekxei Pino filed the lawsuit this past Friday, claiming that Highsmith’s careless driving caused the accident. Pino alleges he was helping a motorist on Feb. 6 in Miami when Highsmith ran into him in his 2021 Audi A5 at a high rate of speed. According to Pino, Highsmith was driving over the legal speed limit before crashing into him. Pino sustained additional injuries in the accident and has undergone multiple medical procedures.

“Pino and his lawyer are asking for unspecified damages but estimate it will be in excess of $50,000.” TMZ‘s report states. Pino’s family has started a GoFundMe, hoping to raise $100,000 to help him with the recovery process.

Haywood Highsmith was traveling over speed limit at time of accident, per police report

Per the police report, Highsmith was traveling 45 mph in a 40-mph zone. Drugs and alcohol were said to not be involved. Police cited Highsmith with careless driving. The accident occurred while Highsmith was on his way home from the team’s 121-95 win over the Orlando Magic at the Kaseya Center.

The Heat listed Highsmith as out for the following home contest against the San Antonio Spurs.

“We have been made aware that Highsmith was involved in a car accident heading home from last night’s game,” the Heat said in a statement at the time. “Highsmith is listed as out for tonight’s contest against the San Antonio Spurs due to Personal Reasons. Our hearts go out to those who were injured. We will have no further comment at this time.”

Highsmith, 27, is in his fourth season in the NBA and third with the Heat. He’s appeared in 40 games (24 starts) this season, posting averages of 5.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game. Highsmith is shooting 42.1% from the field and 36.7% from behind the arc.