Teen’s death could lead to ban on skateboarding stunt
A memorable scene in the 1985 film “Back to the Future” is Michael J. Fox’s character, Marty McFly, riding a skateboard to school while grabbing onto the rear bumpers of one vehicle after another to propel him.
When Dallas Swogger attempted a similar move last year in Canton, it led to the 16-year-old’s death.
Disturbed by the tragic accident near his home, state Rep. Thomas West, D-Canton, said he discovered that although it is illegal to ride a bike, coaster, roller skates, sled or toy vehicle while being attached to a streetcar, trackless trolley or vehicle, doing so with a skateboard is legal.
West recently introduced a bill, known as the Dallas Swogger Act, that would ban skateboarding while attached to a vehicle. The House Rules and Reference Committee has assigned the legislation to the House Transportation and Public Safety Committee, of which West is a member.
“This bill is really aimed at trying to get awareness out there because this is not OK,” West said. “It’s not OK to grab onto cars because a moving vehicle is a weapon and can actually kill you . ... I know that kids live recklessly in some cases and feel they’re invincible, but at the same time, it’s up for adults to keep their eyes out and to make sure laws are in place to help prevent kids from hurting themselves.”
If the bill becomes state law, anyone who grabs or attaches themselves to a vehicle while riding on a skateboard — and the driver of a vehicle who knowingly allows anyone to do so — could be charged with a minor misdemeanor. A first offense would carry no jail term and a maximum fine of $150.
On Sept. 29, Dallas, a ninth-grader at McKinley High School’s Downtown Campus, was going home from school when he decided to grab the bumper of a vehicle while riding his skateboard.
He was not wearing a helmet when he fell, hit his head and suffered serious brain injuries.
He died Oct. 3 at Akron Children’s Hospital after his parents decided to take him off life support.