Did you not see the hose before the crash? Isn't watching the sidewalk part of skateboarding? There are many other obstacles on sidewalks such as uneven sidewalks, crumbling sidewalks, branches, etc. In the process of watching for these things, wouldn't you also notice the garden hoses?
Skateboarders (and many others) cause damage to the sidewalks, which homeowners are responsible for paying for. Perhaps watch out for tricky situations and be thankful for the homeowners who are bearing the brunt of your skateboard use. Some day you may be a homeowner and need to water your lawn and pay for the sidewalks to be repaired and used by others.
To Julie, I think Mathew's point is very valid. If reasonably was talking about his mother with cancer, everybody would be sympathetic. For this, with the attitude first displayed, not so much.
BTW, if it was a case of skateboarding over the hose on your way to school, what are you doing posting in the middle of the school day?
[This message has been edited by Mary B. (9/7/2010)]