Alabama Sen. Garlan Gudger says he’s recovering after jet ski accident

Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, stands on the floor of the Alabama Senate on April 25, 2024 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, said in a statement on Sunday he was still in urgent care but was able to walk down a hallway after a jet ski collision on Independence Day.

Gudger released the statement from the University of Alabama Birmingham hospital, where he was airlifted after the accident on Smith Lake on Thursday. Gudger had surgery to address internal bleeding and also suffered three fractured vertebrae, six fractured ribs and a punctured lung.

“ The physical recovery will be a difficult one for our family, but it will be made easier by the intercessory prayers being sent by friends, family, constituents, colleagues, and even total strangers who understand that healing comes from God,” he wrote. “At this time, I must focus on getting better and will not be able to accept visitors, but please know how grateful my family and I are for everyone who has reached out to offer help and concern.”

He also thanked the people who provided assistance after the accident, including bystanders, first responders, the flight team and the medical staff at UAB.

Gudger was first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.

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