SC woman hit by motor scooter sues Myrtle Beach retirement facility for $100K. Here are the details
An Horry County woman has sued a Myrtle Beach senior living facility for more than $100,000 after another resident on a motorized scooter allegedly rammed into her, allegedly causing “serious injuries” resulting in permanent impairment and disabilities.
According to the lawsuit, on Aug. 2, 2024 Mina Akers was checking her mail in the common area of Portside at Grande Dunes, where she was a resident, when resident Jim Everatt collided into her on a scooter.
“The collision ripped a large portion of the skin from her right ankle requiring at least 35 stitches and ultimately leading to a severe infection,” the lawsuit says. “As a result of her injuries, Ms. Akers underwent treatment for several months including stitches, wound debridement, wound vac and plastic surgery.”
Akers is suing CPF Living Communities II — doing business as The Portside at Grande Dunes, Portside Executive Director Angela Allen and Minnesota-based senior living property management company Grace Management Inc.
Staff were allegedly aware Everett had previously collided with a resident before the Aug. 2 incident. Portside’s internal policies dictate that it has sole discretion on whether residents can operate motor scooters on the premises, according to the lawsuit.
“As a result of the prior incident, Portside knew or should have known that allowing Jim Everett to operate a motorized scooter inside of the premises was a dangerous hazard to all residents in the facility,” the suit says.
The lawsuit alleges the defendants failed to maintain safe premises, implement safety policies, adequately train staff and properly supervise operations.
Beyond her leg and ankle injuries, Akers allegedly suffered headaches, limitation of motion, anxiety, property damage and medical bills. She’s seeking actual damages greater than $100,000, appropriate punitive damages and legal costs.
The Portside at Grande Dunes, Grace Management Inc. and Allen did not respond to requests for comment before publication.