American golfer Tiger Woods has been seriously injured after being involved in a car crash Tuesday morning near Ranchos Palos Verdes, California. He had to be taken out from his sports-utility vehicle as it sustained significant damage after a single-vehicle rollover traffic crash, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Woods, 45, is going through surgery for multiple leg injuries. He has reportedly suffered two leg fractures (one compound in nature) and a shattered ankle.
Woods’ injuries are not life-threatening. He was conscious, calm, and lucid when paramedics attended the scene. Paramedics considered him to be in serious but stable condition with an LASD representative on Tuesday night saying Woods was “lucky to be alive,” crediting his vehicle (a 2021 Genesis SUV) and decision to use a seatbelt.
The SUV’s only occupant, he was extricated by paramedics through the windshield of the vehicle, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. There was no proof of impairment.
Woods was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center by ambulance for treatment. LAFD Chief Daryl Osby explained that Woods’ transportation to a trauma center instead of a local hospital showed that his injuries were severe but his condition was not critical.
Woods was allegedly traveling at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle before crossing the center divider with his SUV rolling multiple times, law enforcement sources said. The LASD did not confirm that description of the accident but did note the area has a high rate of car accidents as vehicles are traveling downhill on a steep curve.
The crash took place shortly after 7 a.m. PT, is under investigation by the LASD.
