HARLAN, Ky. — A Kentucky lawmaker was critically injured when the lawn mower he was riding plunged into an empty swimming pool at his home, authorities said Monday.
State Sen. Johnnie Turner, a Republican from Harlan, was in critical but stable condition at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, said Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers.
Turner was injured when he drove his mower into the deep end of the pool, Kentucky State Police said. Authorities received the 911 call shortly before 8 p.m. Sunday. State police had no details about what caused the accident. Turner was taken to a local hospital and then transferred to UT Medical Center.
Turner’s injuries were not immediately disclosed. His family requested prayers for his “speedy recovery,” Stivers said in a statement.
Turner, an attorney, represents multiple counties in eastern Kentucky. He won election to the state Senate in 2020, ousting a Democratic incumbent with the same last name. Turner defeated two challengers in the Republican primary in May, and he is being challenged by an independent candidate in the November election. Turner served in the Kentucky House from 1999 to 2002.
Turner is a staunch defender of the coal industry, once the backbone of the eastern Kentucky economy. Coal employment in Kentucky fell sharply over the last decade as cheaper natural gas prices and tougher environmental regulations prompted electric providers to move away from buying coal.
Kentucky’s GOP-dominated legislature will begin its 2025 session in January. Until then, lawmakers are meeting in interim committees to study a range of issues in preparation for next year’s 30-day session.
A Kentucky lawmaker is currently in critical condition after suffering severe injuries in a lawn mower accident. The incident occurred on the lawmaker’s property, where he was reportedly mowing his lawn when the accident occurred.
According to reports, the lawmaker was operating a riding lawn mower when it suddenly overturned, causing him to be thrown from the vehicle. Emergency services were called to the scene and the lawmaker was rushed to a nearby hospital with critical injuries.
Lawn mower accidents are unfortunately not uncommon, and can result in serious injuries or even death. In fact, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are approximately 80,000 lawn mower-related injuries each year in the United States.
To prevent lawn mower accidents, it is important to follow safety guidelines and precautions. Here are some tips to help prevent accidents while operating a lawn mower:
1. Read the owner’s manual: Before operating a lawn mower, be sure to read the owner’s manual and familiarize yourself with the proper operation of the machine.
2. Wear appropriate clothing: When operating a lawn mower, be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and eye protection to prevent injuries from flying debris.
3. Keep children and pets away: Never allow children or pets to play near a lawn mower while it is in operation. Keep a safe distance between the mower and any bystanders.
4. Check for hazards: Before mowing, inspect the area for any potential hazards such as rocks, tree roots, or debris that could cause the mower to overturn.
5. Use caution on slopes: Exercise caution when mowing on slopes or uneven terrain to prevent the mower from tipping over.
6. Never remove safety features: Do not tamper with or remove any safety features on the lawn mower, such as guards or shields.
7. Avoid distractions: Stay focused on the task at hand and avoid distractions while operating a lawn mower.
It is important to prioritize safety when operating any type of machinery, including lawn mowers. By following these tips and taking precautions, you can help prevent accidents and injuries while mowing your lawn. Our thoughts are with the injured lawmaker and his family during this difficult time.
