You might remember me mentioning the sale of my car a little while back…many of you commented on that post with great stories of your favorite cars over the years. One of the things that appealed to me selling my car and getting something a lot cheaper…like free…was that we would be able to do some work around our house and I was finally given permission to buy a motorcycle. Embarrassment
I’d been riding my uncle’s bike for a while, and it was finally time for me to get something of my own. I found this little beauty for a steal on Craigslist. 1987 Harley Davidson Softail (only 8k miles):
I’ve been riding daily for the last couple of months. It’s been fun to ride to work in the morning and I’ve noticed an element of stress leaving me before I arrive home on my bike. Maybe what they say is true, that you don’t ever see Harleys parked outside of psychiatrist’s offices.
5pm on Tuesday I was heading home – by 5:30 I was in an ambulance.
This is where everyone is cordially invited to say “I told you so.”
I was being cautious…I was being careful…I was riding slow…and I was riding defensively. You can do all the right stuff and still be in the wrong place at the wrong time. As I headed home, there was a brand new Lincoln driven by an 83 year old man coming the opposite direction. He caught my attention because he appeared to be driving slow. I couldn’t tell if he was planning on turning…he didn’t have a signal on. I approached cautiously and slowed down a little more as he was making me nervous.
My plan was to slow down, wait until I was within 10-15 feet of his car, and then speed up to safely pass him. As I got about 15 feet away from him, he hit the gas and yanked the wheel left. There was nothing I could do. If I were to veer right, I would have gotten myself in front of his car and he would have run me over. If I veered left, I would have come into oncoming traffic. I was going to t-bone him and there was nothing I could do about it. I locked up the brakes and tried to get my bike sideways to smack up against his car instead of hitting it straight on…I was fearful I would flip over the handlebars.
The bike reacted the way I wanted it to and I slid into the side of his car as he sped through. I have no idea if he ever saw me until he felt the collision. I nearly stayed up right on the bike, but the wind was knocked out of me and my right foot felt crushed. I rolled off the motorcycle and fell into the street where I couldn’t move. The bike lay beside me, still running, as it poured gas and oil all over the road.
Immediately there were people running to help me. The driver of the Lincoln was not one of them. He simply got out of his car, glanced over at me, and then began looking at the damage to his vehicle. Strangers came over and got ice for me, drinks of water, and wet towels. The ambulance arrived and put me onto a stretcher. I couldn’t move my toes or bend my right leg.
Lots of cuts and bruises…least of which is my ego. Several X-Rays later revealed a foot broken in multiple places and something is seriously wrong with my right knee. I am going to see an orthopedic specialist today to see what’s next. Thankfully, I was wearing my helmet, which has some serious scratches on it.
To be honest, I feel like I was violated. I have not felt this angry in a long time. Sure, the bike I just got is trashed, but at least I’m okay. I’m more upset because I’ve been so careful, cautious, and defensive. I’ve been trying to prove people wrong that not everyone gets in accidents on motorcycles. I had at least hoped that something like this wouldn’t happen so soon after beginning.
The driver of the Lincoln was sited and it was clear to the police that he was in the wrong. I’m certain that I’ve proven many people right with this crash…even though I couldn’t prevent it. Many will say, “sure you could prevent it…don’t ride a motorcycle.”, but that logic doesn’t work for me.
Don’t walk up stairs because people fall down them.
Don’t cook on a stove because people get burned by them.
Where does it end?
I’m in a lot of pain right now, and I’m not sure where this will all end up. I’ll heal, and my family is here for me, so I can’t ask for much more. It could have been a lot worse assuredly. I struggled to even admit this accident because I know so many people are just waiting for it to happen.
Well…it happened, and I just ask that if you’re a praying person that you would pray for me and my family. I can’t walk or drive right now and it’s going to be a real challenge with how quickly I’m used to moving around. Thank you for your love and support.
Ryan
Awww Ryan. Man that is horrible. I am so sorry you were hurt, but so thankful it wasn’t worse. I am also so sorry about your poor bike.
No, riding a bike isn’t the safest of choices but how boring would life be if we never took any risks? I hope that old fool has good insurance and that he has to be re-tested before being able to get behind the wheel again. No “I knew it’s” from me.
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I’m so sorry this happened to you Ryan. Your friends are here as well and none of us are saying “I told you so”. Praying for healing and restoration and also peace of mind in regards to this. If you guys need anything, anything at all, please call.
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O.k. that comment from Jonathan was really from me, Kelly!
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I’ll be praying for you for a swift recovery. Please don’t let it put you off riding!
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That sounds really bad! I’m very sorry that you got hurt. But like the earlier poster mentioned, thankful that it wasn’t worse.
It’s a weird coincidence that I got into an accident too recently. But I was lucky because it was “just” a fender bender. A lady bumped me from behind at a red light. I understand what you mean about doing everything right and still getting into an accident because you were at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Wishing you a fast recovery! I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers. Take care!
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I was involved in a bad car accident years ago (as a passenger) where a car ahead literally stopped in the middle of the highway in the Florida Keys to do an illegal u-turn. They were uninsured as well. I remember my head hurtling toward the windshield because my seatbelt didn’t lock and I remember the glass splintering in front of my eyes.
After the collision I remember anger. White hot anger. I got out of the car and yelled some expletives at the driver who had stopped in the highway (perhaps along the lines of Why the *bleep* are you stopped in the middle of the *bleeping* road??).
The amazing part of my story (other than that I now know in stressful situations I don’t turn into a blubbering, quivering mess) is that other than some burns from the airbag and some cuts on my feet from getting out of the car barefoot, I wasn’t injured – at all. The paramedics on the scene were very concerned about the passenger in the front seat of the car I was in (me) because it clearly looked like my head went through the windshield. I don’t know what happened between my head going towards the glass and the glass splintering, but I can only assume it was Divine intervention. Physics can’t explain it.
So glad you are ok to ride another day. So angry not only at the incompetence of others but also of their lack of caring about how their actions effect others.
Watch for motorcycles – they are everywhere!
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I feel the need for some Thai food, a Sam’s Club run, and a delivery to your house!
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Ryan, I’m so sorry. I’m praying for a quick healing for you.
Yes, you can do everything right and still get hurt. It sucks. My husband was in a motorcycle accident a while ago as well. We’re really learned that motorcycle drivers ARE cautious (the majority of them) it’s the other drivers that DO NOT look out for motorcycles. It makes my blood boil.
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I am so sorry Ryan!! This is so awful but I’m glad that you are okay. My prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.
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Hi Ryan,
I feel for you and your family and hope and pray that your emotional and physical scars heal quickly.
I struggle with you saying that you feel like you’ve been raped. I don’t want to make light of YOUR situation, but I feel that using that term is perhaps making light of THAT situation.
I don’t mean any offense… I just hope that your comment was thought through, or perhaps you could change it.
Thanks.
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Heather in CA says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 9:59 am
I struggled with that term too and it also is not to lessen the feelings you had after the accident. I think for those of us who have survived that, nothing else can be compared. I wish you a very speedy recovery.
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MH says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 2:55 pm
@Beth, Thank you for posting this. The use of rape as a metaphor upset me so much that I couldn’t bear to comment until now, though I read this post hours ago.
Ryan, I truly do pray that you recover quickly.
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Betty M says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Yeah, I agree… reading that rape comment made me cringe.
Hope you feel better. My family are longtime bikers (2 of our friends have been killed seperately on them) and I personally think the problem is often that it’s so easy to look past a motorcycle and then kind of forget they’re still there. Sucks.
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Mer says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 5:38 pm
I didn’t take Ryan’s use of the term “violated” as a synonym for rape. I felt violated when someone stole my car out of my driveway. Again, when things were taken from my house. These, and Ryan’s accident, are violations of personal space, emotional and mental trespass, and in Ryan’s case, a very real attack on one’s person.
Ryan,
I pray for your speedy recovery and healing – inside and out!
Mer
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MH says:
September 3rd, 2010 at 6:26 pm
@Mer, Ryan changed the wording – which in my opinion, showed sensitivity and caring and I have am appreciative and grateful for the fact that he respected the intent and feelings of those of us who voiced our discomfort at the triggering word/metaphor (and especially didn’t get defensive – that shows a lot of class and caring in my opinion). (Thank you for that, Ryan.)
I think the use of the word violated is apt, and it’s an awful feeling. And Mer, I know just what you mean re: feeling violated when it comes to experiences like the ones you describe, as well. I hope that you are doing ok after those incidents!
Ryan, I hope that you have been feeling better (physically and emotionally) and better as each day passes.
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Things happen. God knew about it. He has a plan! Trust Him to make it all worth it. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone, but you do need to keep your heart right with Him! We are still enjoying reading your honesty on this blog, and will pray that you have a smooth recovery!
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My brother is an avid motorcycle enthusiast and rides his whenever he can. He too has been very careful, and has also suffered your fate. I would guess that most accidents involving motorcycles are caused by other drivers who don’t see the bike. I told him that motorcycles make lousy speed bumps!
I will pray for your speedy recovery, both physical and emotional.
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Praying for a speedy and complete recovery!!
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So glad you are not hurt more then you are. We live in VA and my hubby on nice days drives his bike on a 4 lane hwy to work 2 hours one way. I do not ride often even around my home town because other people scare me, not my hubby. Looks like you had a sweet bike & if your gonna get back to riding again I hope you find something you like again for a sweet deal.
Sorry.
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Thank God your alive. Most don’t walk away that fortunate!
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Awww Ryan…I’m sorry. There isn’t a person among us who hasn’t been doing all of the right things at the right time and still had an accident(s) thrust upon us. Life is too short for “I told you so”. Praying for quick healing for your injured knee and foot, as little pain as possible, good insurance resolution for your damaged bike, for the pieces to fall into place to keep your life and your family’s life running smoothly in spite of your inabilty to drive, and for God to work everything out for His glory and good. Big hugs to you, buddy. It’ll all work out.
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I go to the podiatrist to get (hopefully!) my darth vader boot off today….I broke my foot 7 weeks ago by closing it in my car door. At least your story is more exciting than mine.
Good luck. It’s not easy, but the terrible pain does go away after a few weeks, even though it doesn’t seem like it will.
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I’m sorry that you were hurt, and wish you a complete and speedy recovery.
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So sorry to hear about your accident, and I am hoping you have a quick recovery. I don’t think you should give up riding. Just about everything is dangerous – my fiance has been in two accidents (cars not seeing him… grrrr) on his BICYCLE in the last couple of years… but he still gets out there and goes on his epic rides every weekend, because that’s what makes him happy and relieves his stress. You’re right… people fall down stairs, people burn themselves… we still have to live our lives and do what we love.
Sending good thoughts to you and your family!
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So sorry Ryan, old people and cars don’t mix. I had to take the keys from my mom, it was painful for us both. But she understands and now we take her where she needs to go and don’t have to worry she will get in an accident. I don’t like motorcycles, but it does not mean I don’t respect the decision to drive one. Sorry about the bike, and the foot! Prayers are on the way. Mary
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WIll pray for y’all and definitely – this is why it is called “an accident” it isn’t called “an on purpose dumb thing I did”. I’ve gotten a concussion putting my lawnmower away (long story) so phooey on those who want to blame the motorcycle. Will you be able to get the bike fixed?
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Sorry to hear of your accident. Sending healing thoughts your way, speedy recovery Ryan. You did do all the right things – but we never know what the other guy on the road will do! And I hope you do get another bike – it sounded right for you.
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So sorry Ryan! I’ll be praying for healing and recovery from this trauma. Seems to me that it doesn’t matter if you were on a motorcycle or in a car. The driver of the Lincoln made some really bad choices that caused an unavoidable accident. Glad you have a supportive family to be with you.
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I’m SO GLAD you are okay! Here’s to a quick recovery, and nice, leisurely rides on beautiful days in your future. It’s too bad a few states separate us and your sweet family…I’d be over with food in a heartbeat.
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really – anyone that would tell you “I told you so”…can suck it
You were in an accident – accidents happen – and may the family of the gentleman that hit you have a great family that has the sense to take his keys away from him.
Godspeed –
Maybe this will be our blessing….more blogging and more cooking.
Take Care
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My Father, who passed away at the end of May, rode a motorcycle since he was about your age. He did not die due to a motorcycle crash… although he did experience one. He, too, rode carefully/defensively/perfectly. Accidents happen. If he were to sit across from you today (and he will one day in heaven) he would tell you to get back on a bike once you are better, and try again. We suspect that the first thing he did in heaven was climb on the bike God has been saving just for him and let her ride! I will pray for your family, for your healing, and for Divine protection for you in all days and all ways. Especially if you do get to climb back on the biker’s seat. I miss my Dad – and some of my best memories of him are seeing his smile when he drove up on his bike.
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Ryan… I’m in the same boat! Email me and I’ll share my short story with you. I still have one or two chapters of this story. I have knee surgery scheduled for 9/17 to repair an ACL tear in my left knee. I’ll finish my story up after my surgery.
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Get well soon Ryan! I hope you don’t have to have knee surgery. Everyone I know that has had knee surgery (including myself) have never recovered from it. I did the physical therapy and everything and I still don’t have all the motion in my knee.
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I am so sorry Ryan. And you are right. You could say don’t take a drink of water you could choke. Don’t use a knife you could cut your finger. You did nothing wrong. Actually you did everything right. We need driving test’s for people over the age of 75 in this country. Seriously.
Speedy healing. I say you’ll be up and moving sooner than you think.
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Oh I’m so sorry this has happened to you and will be praying for your recovery!
My husband and I had a similar accident several years back. We loved our Harley and my husband had my complete trust driving as he’d ridden for years. We’d traveled quite a bit on it for a couple of years and had a blast.
Same as you though, one day some dummy cut right into our lane unexpectedly from a left turn lane. All we could do was T-bone him. I only suffered cracked ribs, but C ended up with a crushed wrist/arm and had to wear an external tinker toy set for weeks after surgery. Not a fun experience (we were headed out of town for our anniversary). I remember having to call my Mother (who had ALWAYS said don’t get on the back of a motorcycle to me growing up) and tell her what happened. She didn’t give me the “I told you so”, but I know she had to be thinking it!
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I’m a silent stalker (lol) and have enjoyed reading your blog for quite a while. When you wrote your first post about riding a motorcycle, I sent it to my husband at work. He has been wanting a bike for awhile, but I am kind of terrified of…accidents. :-/ I thought he would really enjoy your observations on riding, which he did, and he also enjoyed that I sent it to him; he took that as an “okay you can get a bike now” haha.
Of course a couple of days after I sent it to him his Dad told him HE is getting a bike, and then one of his buddies got one too. Oh dear! :-/ I think it’s going to happen.
I am so grateful you were not hurt worse and will be praying for you and your precious family! And pray for me too not worry about my husband getting a motorcycle, haha. It’s all your fault for making it sound so appealing…and all my fault for sending him your post. :-/
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Aw Ryan!!! I’m SO sorry! This just sucks. My dad has had a Harley for years and has been fortunate enough to never have an accident. I’m sure you’re just as careful as him, but as he’s said “There is no accounting for other people”. It’s a risk he’s willing to take though. I don’t think you should be embarrassed. Things like this happen. I just totaled my car last Wednesday night. Unfortunately, it was my fault. Sort of. I won’t even get into that long story, but the point is, stuff like this happens. I was very lucky to have not been hurt at all and neither was my passenger so I’m so sorry to read that you are in physical pain and emotional distress. I’ve never even met you, but I want to give you a big hug and be your chauffer (although I’m not sure you’d want me as your driver) until you’re well again. I allowed myself a total of one day to feel sorry for myself and now I’m just smiling and all better. I’ll allow you longer since you got hurt, but I know you’ll be smiling again soon! Best wishes to you and your family!
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Ryan, I wish you well. Everyone’s already said what I could say. I pray for a quick recovery and inner growth as you mend (both body and heart).
And Beth…you’re not the only one. I do agree with you. Thanks for being diplomatic in your comment.
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b. says:
September 7th, 2010 at 7:56 am
@b.,
Ryan, thanks for listening on the point Beth made. ‘Preciate it. Again, wishing you a speedy and healthy recovery. Maybe while you’re on the mend you’ll find some great recipes to try once you’re up again.
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I’d love to learn to ride a motorcycle. I admire and envy the people can, and who have the courage to do so when there’s so little protection around you. By all rights, the people who are careful and safe, no matter what mode of transportation, should be the ones who don’t get hurt. But there are twelve million stupid drivers out there for every one SAFE driver.
The point is, don’t be angry with yourself. The man who turned, he’s the one to blame. Forgive yourself, forgive him, and get back on the bike when you can! (if you can
)
I pray your leg heals up quickly, and you’ll be back out on the road soon!
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Goodness. You do realize this could happen in a car? Or on a bicycle? Or crossing the street? There’s no “I told you so” to it. This doesn’t prove that a motorcycle is unsafe or indicate that you’re not a careful driver. This proves that, beyond a certain age, the older generation needs a little extra attention from the DMV. I watched a little old woman at the Virginia DMV take 45 minutes to pass her eye exam, leaning on her walker, and they handed her a renewal license without a comment. *rolling eyes* It doesn’t help that some of them drive boats. I’m patiently awaiting the day my mother-in-law takes someone down with her giant Cadillac.
Or course you will be in my prayers. Not only for the healing of your leg, but for the healing of your soul. I’m so sorry that the idiot in the Lincoln hit you, and that he basically left you lying there. And I’m sorry that you feel like you’ve been violated. But from reading the comments, it appears you have a ton of support and takeout coming your way to ease the burden on you and your family. What a blessing to have such friends!
Feel better. Maybe Harlan can teach you a thing or two about how to hobble along when you’re down a leg.
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Lynn says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 12:11 pm
@Kristin, I think this has less to do with the older generation and more to do with unsafe drivers. Although my grandfather, at age 82, does not need to be driving anymore and we’re dealing with the logistics of figuring that one out.
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Ryan, you are such a good motorcycle driver; if you hadn’t been so careful, and done everything right, things could have been much worse. I will pray for you and for Allison — I imagine this might have been the scare of HER life too!
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Oh and here’s a great quote for you. It’s one of my very fave’s. “When we try to be safe, we live our lives being very, very careful; and we end up having no lives.” -Byron Katie (from one of the most “full Of wisdom” women on earth)
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You know my husband has been wanting a bike in a bad way. I have never had a doubt my husband wouldnt be the best driver out there. But its all the other people that drive that terrify me. I would almost guess that at least 80% of all motorcycle accidents have no fault of the rider.
I hope you get to feeling better. Physically I know your pain. I have 6 screws and a 6 inch plate in my left ankle. So just make sure you take care of yourself.
Thank you for sharing..:)
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Dude you couldn’t have come up with anything closer to the accident I had in my car if you’d tried. Almost the exact same thing happened to me but I was in a ’06 Civic. I hit a little 80 something woman in a ’97 buick lesabre. I’m sure you can guess what vehicle won. I walked away with 2 damaged disks in my back and a wrecked car. Being on a motorcycle didn’t cause the accident. Being in a car would of had a similar outcome.
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I hope you recover quickly.
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OUCH. Sorry – that totally blows. Praying for your recovery. And that the driver never does this to anyone else. Sorry too that your ride was destroyed. Maybe something better is in your future
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Praying for you and your family. Hoping you have a speedy recovery and no surgery. We in the medical field call them donar cycles for a reason. You always have to watch out for the other guy.
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I’m so sorry about your accident! Just think…if you were in a car, you probably wouldn’t have been that careful and cautious. It might be a blessing that you were on your motorcycle because you might not have slowed down, and then one or both of you could have been even more seriously injured or even dead.
Wow. I feel like Pollyana…
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If it’s any consolation, I got in a car accident two days after I got my license. About the bikes, well, I know people who’ve ridden them forever without a problem, and I also know people who have died. My own uncle was in an accident early in his life, and had to re-learn how to walk and talk again. Anyway, that being said, I don’t necessarily think you need to quit riding. But I don’t know if this post was you asking for advice on that anyway. People are going to have their opinions, for sure, but I wouldn’t worry too much about that. Just consult your family about what the next steps are.
Glad you are okay.
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Ryan, I’m so sorry. You’re right, it doesn’t matter how careful we are, sometimes in life things just happen. There is currently a campaign in my city reminding folks to watch out for motorcyclists and their safety. My prayers are with you and your family for a quick recovery and peace.
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I got a sportster in May 09 after taking the instructional course and riding on the back of my husband’s bike for a year. EVERYONE told me repeatedly that I would get in to an accident.
But like you I find the riding addictive. It settles my mind and my soul and allows me to start and/or end the day a whole person. There is nothing like riding on that bike and knowing that I CAN DO IT.
So when I slid down a hill on vacation and tipped over I was devastated. I had separated my shoulder and we had to get someone to trailer my bike home so we could continue on vacation on my husbands bike.
Everyone kept saying “see?” and I kept quiet. When I had enough of the “see” and “I told you so” I calmly replied with auto or airplane accident statistics.
Then? Then I promptly got back on my fixed bike this spring. It was amazing. I believe that I am a better auto driver and motorcycle driver after my accident. I am more aware and thoughtful. And I’m back at peace on my bike.
Quick healing to you.
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My husband would love a motorcycles, I would love a motorcycle. And yet I can’t bring myself to let one in because I just don’t trust that other people are competent enough not to kill us. I’m so sorry this happened to you, I understand what it feels like to feel violated when you did everything you were supposed to and someone else’s incompetence leads you into harm. I hope there is a hidden blessing in this and that you’ll be fully healed and out riding again as soon as possible.
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I’ll join in praying for your healing.
I’m sorry your bike got trashed…it was a beauty. I hope you’re able to get another bike!
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The people who feel the need to say “I told you so”, aren’t really worth listening to anyways. Usually those that caution against riding motorcycles know absolutely NOTHING about them, have never ridden them and are behaving out of abject and ignorant fear.
It’s my belief that regardless of what you were using for transport that day, if you were hit (on a bike, as a pedestrian or on a motorcycle) it has to do with God wanting you to experience a lesson and it wouldn’t matter if you were on a bike or not.
I am sorry you’re in pain, and I’m sure your level of anger and frustration is difficult to manage. Like so much in life, the reasons WHY are not obvious up front. Trust in yourself and in your faith that in time, you will emerge the better man for this experience.
Road biking and riding a motorcycle wouldn’t be so dangerous if people operating VEHICLES were paying attention to what they are doing. You can only be so safe in life. I’d rather take the chance and have a good time
Speedy recovery to you!
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I drove that into my nephew’s head when he started driving. It doesn’t matter how good of a driver you are or how careful you are – you can’t control what other people do. I do hope you get an attorney and do not settle for less than you need and want. His insurance company should pay you for his negligence. Nearly the same thing happened to me a few years back. My Jeep Cherokee t-boned an 82 year old woman driving a 1987 Thunderbird. I was lucky enough to walk away but have a herniated disc in my neck and I’ll live with that pain forever. And right now you have no idea how quickly those medical bills will add up or how long it will take you (if you ever) to get back to normal. Wishing you a speedy recovery and hoping that it’s not as bad as it looks.
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I am so sorry for all of this yet thankful that you are still here. I hope the Dr’s are wise and that your healing is swift. Take your meds, you won’t heal effectively if you are battling pain. Give yourself the time to heal and the right to be angry. I guess that is all the ‘Mom’ advice I have, for what it is worth.
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I’m sorry you were hurt and I hope you have a fast and full recovery. Note, you were not in accident because you were not in accident as a result of riding a motorcycle, you were in an accident as a result of someone else being careless on the road. The accident would have likely happened even if you were in a car. So for people to say “I told you that you would get in an accident if you rode a motorcycle” is not applicable in this case.
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Sweet mercy. So glad you survived it without an even more serious injury. Good on you for wearing the helmet, it sounds like you did all the right things. I hope you have a smooth recovery. Take ‘er easy, dude.
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I bought my husband a motorcycle a few years ago. It was something that he has wanted since he was a teenager, but never would have bought himself. I understand the risks, but you only get one chance here to live your life and I think you need to find joy wherever you can. God is in control and riding a motorcycle does not change that. If you are meant to go, then you will regardless.
Don’t be embarrassed or feel foolish. It was an accident, plain and simple. Be thankful that you weren’t more seriously hurt. That’s all.
Whether you ever ride again or not is up to you and your family. Just remember that even getting out of bed in the morning has its risks. It’s about managing risks and being comfortable with whatever level you are willing to take. Prayers for physical and emotional healing.
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Ouch! I’ll pray for a speedy recovery.
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Thank God you are relatively ok. Ok I’m about to go on a personal rant of a story, but I just have to share it and get it out.
My grandfather who was my heart and soul, and I his, came on his trike that he built himself to visit my family. We were away on vacation and he had forgotten the dates of our camping trip.
He headed home on the frontage road back to his little village of a town nearby. An elderly couple pulled out of a church parking lot as my grandfather was coming up a hill.. The man driving didnt see him and pulled right in front of him. The bike was beyond totaled and my grandpa had a ton of injuries. Too many to list as it pains me to think of that time. To be reminded of the bruises all the way up his leg.
It took him at least a month or so to get out of the hospital. They put him in a rehab hospital and a couple weeks later he was finally allowed to go home.
Not long (a month maybe?) after the accident his injuries were still not healing as they should. We found out he had acute lukemia. He battled with it for as long as he could, then died the day after April Fools Day. He was 67 years old. way too young to leave as far as I’m concerned. Graduations, weddings, the birth of my own children… For some reason I never thought he would not be there for that.
Your story reminds me of his story even though they are not the same.
I’ve been in an emotional whirlwind lately and while it pains me to think of those days and his suffering… It reminds me of how much he loved me. That I’m capable of being loved so purely and intently. And how much I love him.
I miss him so.
Please get better Pastor Ryan.
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Ryan I feel so bad for you! That is horrible! I hope you have a very fast easy recovery. I always say it’s everyone else you have to watch out for. People just don’t pay attention to motorcycles like they should. I’m so glad you weren’t injured any worse! My prayers are with you!
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Sounds like you would have been in this accident whether you were in a car or on your bike.
Speedy recovery to you.
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Betty M says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 3:16 pm
True, Sara… except that accident in a car would have probably only messed up the car not the driver.
Ryan knew going in that there were bad drivers using the same roads he was on. It was a risk he chose to assume, so he really has nothing to complain about. What he knew could happen did happen.
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Kellie says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 3:55 pm
@Betty M, Really, Betty M – do you feel like it is necessary to make that statement? Have a little compassion.
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Betty M says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 5:47 pm
I don’t mean it in a derrogatory way at all, Kellie. I mean it in a practical, matter of fact, unemotional way.
I bet Ryan would be the first one to say that he accepted the risk… sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t. Bikers aren’t wimps and they don’t make excuses. I don’t think he was doing either in his post. I think he was just telling the story of what happened.
I do have compassion for him. As I stated in an earlier post, I hope he gets to feeling better soon.
My husband and I have ridden Harleys since before we were married 25 years ago, so we know the draw of a bike.
Perhaps my phrasing wasn’t the best… my point is that riders (including myself)are okay with the risks or else they wouldn’t ride. As I said before, it sucks that it had to happen to him.
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Ryan, I am so sorry!
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First, I am so glad it wasn’t nay worse than it was, which was awful enough! Second, I don’t like to think that we live in a society where people “wait for this to happen”… I know we do… people watch NASCAR waiting for the wrecks, and football for the tackle..; but on an individual basis it is so much more vile. Especially when it is directed at a man who has given so much of him self to his community.
I love bikes, I always have. I have lost friends on them, both to their error and others. I have also lost people to cars, water, cancer, old age, guns, violence and almost everything in between. There is risk in walking down the street, taking a shower and lying in our beds. Thank goodness most of of don’t dwell on that, we just live, day to day, hopefully doing things that give us joy, and when those same things bite us in the ass, we hope we have the strength and faith to get back up and go for another ride…and find the joy all over again.
Here’s hoping for a full and quick recovery… of both mind and spirit.
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Ryan, that sucks! I’m glad you weren’t seriously hurt. I wish you a speedy recovery. If you guys need anything, please let us know.
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No “I told you so’s” coming from me. Sometimes even when you are doing your best to be safe & responsible, the people around you may not be. All you have control over is yourself. So heal up, friend. Lean on your family & friends. Be angry, then let it go.
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That could just have easily of happened if you were in a car. Don’t sweat it. Get better and get back on again.
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You so proved what my hubs has always said…about the ‘other’ drivers, you know ’4 wheelers’…….I hope and pray you continue to ride…I know the joy we have recieved over the years now with the kids grown….maybe ride a dirt bike to keep the ‘skills’ and then when the kids are grown…take off!! So glad it was no worse….
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Wow..what a story. What makes me mad is the old man only got sited! He should have been brought into jail and his license taken away! It is horrible when people young or old act like they know what they are doing on the road when they really don’t! Praying for peace, no pain and serenity for you and in your healing time which I am assuming will be pretty long. If I only lived closer I would be bringing you a casserole right now!
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This did not happen because you were on a motorcycle. This happened because that man was an irresponsible, selfish driver. It could have happened if you were in a car, if you were riding a regular bike…anything. Blame him, not yourself.
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Thankfully you were aware and you were being careful, because you are still here! I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts. Hugs.
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I’m so sorry you are hurt!
It is not given us to live lives of undisrupted calm, boredom, and mediocrity. It is given us to be edge-dwellers.
-Jay Deacon
Hope this doesn’t change who He made you to be.
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Ah..Ryan…of course I will pray for you and your family during this difficult time. AND no I’m not the type who says “I told you so”. I’m a FIRM believer that no one should say that because it has an arrogance to it and a tinge of judgement. We all should clean our own houses before looking into others’ as far as I’m concerned. Drink lots of fluids to help your body heal for it has had a great shock and needs rest and fluids. I can suggest a good read: Water Crystal Healing (Music & Images To Restore Your Well-Being) by Masaru Emoto. This man’s work with water and crystals and water being God’s word is amazing. Fondly, Roberta
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Praying for your recovery.
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Ryan- I am praying for you. While I am not a fan of motorcycles, there still isn’t reason to say “I told you so”. Stuff happens. Not all of it is *good* so, for now, I pray for healing and peace, that you can get through this time and get back on a bike again and feel confident and enjoy the journey! Thank God you were not hurt worse! Hang in there, brother. You’ll ride again, and we’ll be here eager to hear all about it when you do!! Blessings and peace, bro.
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My prayers are with you and your family at this time….
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You’re not living if you deny yourself simple delights. Sure, motorcycles are dangerous, but what isn’t? Sounds like your thoughtfulness and care turned what could have been horrific into something _relatively_ minor. Now I just hope you heal swiftly and find a way to make peace with the man who injured you. Good luck!
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You know what? You’re right. We can either live our lives in fear of what *might* happen, or we can just LIVE and deal with things as they come.
If you lived a life of fear, you wouldn’t have had the experiences you’ve had in your mission trips, etc.
I hope you heal quickly. but don’t let the naysayers get you down. Wear your scars proudly, knowing you were LIVING (instead of merely existing) when you got them.
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Ryan, as I already told you, I hope you start feeling better, and I’ll be thinking about you. It just seems, and you’ve said it yourself, if something bad CAN happen it WILL happen to you… but you’re tough and you will get through this better than before and smarter. I’m pretty sure everyone on a bike wrecks at some point, its not a matter of if, but when and how bad is it gonna be…
But 4 years ago I witnessed a motorcycle accident on my way to work. I saw in front of me a huge piece of metal flying through the air and I couldn’t tell what it was at first, then I realized it was a bike. I watched it hit the ground and roll and I stopped my car and got out. I was the first person on the scene (other than the other vehicle involved) which quickly multiplied to several who stopped to see if they could help. I knelt beside the rider while calling 911 and talked to him and held his hand while we waited for the ambulance. Its strange, but similar to your story, the woman who crossed the center line and clipped him in her minivan stood outside her car and wouldn’t approach… I remember thinking how this woman could have killed him because of pure negligence. She was still on her cell phone and didn’t even care to see how bad his injuries were…he ended up ok, a little beat up but nothing serious. Every time I see a bike on the road it causes a little anxiety, I can’t imagine my body being so exposed to all the different kinds of people out there on the road.
Motorcycles give me anxiety. Years ago I felt differently, I even remember a late night trip on the back of one at your Halloween party back in the day
I know why you ride and I would never try to change your mind, but it’s just scary to me that your body is protecting your bike and not the other way around… love you and if you need anything don’t hesitate to call…
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So sorry to hear about your accident. I used to always want to ride a motorcycle. I loved the idea of freedom and the wind…. Then I saw an accident and it wasn’t pretty.
Whenever I’m on the busy L.A. freeway and there is a motorcycle around me I am extra aware and extra vigilant. Now I’ll probably be even more so!
I hope you heal up fast!
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Oh man, that really blows. Wishing you a speedy recovery, and hopefully soon you will get your motor running again. Thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. PS – You sure do have a lot of crap happen to you!
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Oh Ryan, I will pray for you. I got a very serious knee injury just walking on the beach trying to enjoy the ocean on my honeymoon. Didn’t walk for almost a year. So, these kind of accidents can happen anywhere, anytime to anyone. If you ever need some knee injury advice please feel free to contact me…I went through the ringer with mine but am very happy to say that it is doing great now and made it through a whole pregnancy without a hiccup!
Take care!
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Ryan, I am so so sorry. As someone who has done my fair share of motorcycle riding, I know how careful one can be. It doesn’t matter how good of a driver you are, other people are still idiots. I’ve been in wrecks, and they suck. And it sucks having people tell you that it was inevitable, and that maybe you shouldn’t ride anymore. So instead, I’m going to tell you I’ll be praying for you, your family, and that that driver learns to be more observant AND a more caring person. And I’m going to tell you to feel better soon, good luck with the injuries (if you lived in WA you could come to my PT clinic!), and I hope this doesn’t deter you from riding in the future. Best of luck!
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My dad owns a motorcycle. Because of that, I’m anal about every driver keeping a ridiculously large distance between their car and any motorcycle around them. I can’t help but picture all those cyclists as my dad. I’m so incredibly sorry that this happened to you. And even sorrier that the driver wasn’t a little kinder. …and more aware. I pray you heal up quickly.
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I’m so sorry to hear (read) about the accident, and am glad it isn’t anything worse. Hope the coming months are gentle and that you have a speedy recovery with minimal discomfort.
I feel so disgusted with the driver of the Lincoln in that he didn’t give you more than a cursory glance, but was more interested in the state of his car. Maybe he was in a state of shock or denial, but really came off as selfish, rude and uncaring.
With the recovery process, you may want to consider finding a reputable/reliable chiropractor. As you heal, you’ll probably be doing quite a bit to compensate for the injuries. When I was in a car accident (got t-boned by another driver and pushed across 2 lanes of oncoming traffic) and the chiropractic adjustments really alleviated the pain in my back and neck after my accident. I think it also did a lot to prevent pain in my hips and lower back from limping. Just a suggestion
Best of luck!
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I was so happy to hear that you’d gotten a motorcycle. I love being on one, though I can’t drive one. I’m so sorry to hear about your accident. The gentleman driving the Lincoln sounds as if he may need his privileged to drive reevaluated. Please heal quickly. And get back on the bike. You were doing everything correctly. Especially wearing your helmet. Thank you for that.
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From one rider to another, I am praying for you and yours.
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I will keep you in my prayers. Thank you for being careful and cautious.
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This is not a pleasant story to share, but it fits. I had a friend die from a motorcycle crash a few years ago. He was only doing about 15mph when a vehicle pulled out in front of him. He swerved and struck a curb, flew over the handle bars and struck a road sign in the median with his head. Although he was wearing a helmet and was not speeding he died on the scene. This friend was a seasoned Harley rider and it only took a few seconds of negligence from the other vehicle driver to take his life. Share the road with motorcycles and give them plenty of space.
*stepping down from my soapbox now*
So glad you are ok.
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I’m so sorry to read about your accident…my prayers go out to you for a quick recovery.
Keep your chin up. You can ride again, if you really want to…
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I am thinking of you Ryan.
As someone that rides, the best piece of advice I was ever given is “when you are on a bike, everyone is out to kill you”. Its sad, but true. I have ranted many hours, screamed at many an ignorant car driver while I was on a bike, bitched with other bikers etc etc.
I am so sorry this happened to you. Always trust your guardian angel when you are on a bike, they make you look more then twice. Those that dont ride dont understand what it feels like to ride, they will always say “you are going to get yourself killed”. But until they know that feeling of riding, they dont understand. I hope you heal quickly. At least its the right foot, that is the brake and not the shifting foot!
And HUGE kudos to you for having the smarts and ability to recognize that forcing that bike into a sideways slide would prevent something much worse from happening. A lot of guys (and gals) cant force their bikes sideways and end up in a world of hurt. big big props to you for that!
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I’m not a big fan of motorcycles as my dad instilled a fear of them in me that I never got over. However, I was married for 16 years to a man who loves motorcycles and I learned that in most cases, the motorcyclist is the careful one and the car driver is at fault in an accident.
Glad to hear it wasn’t any worse and you are healing.
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You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers…
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Oh Ryan, I am so very sorry that you are going through this! Our society is just a dangerous place for bikers, motorized or not. You have a huge network of supporters and we love you! There is no judgment or I told you so. I’m glad you were not injured worse and I wish you a speedy recovery!
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My husband is a rider, Yamaha Road Star. He is also very careful, cautious and defensive on his bike. I’m sorry you were hurt and have to struggle through all that entails. I am thankful you are alive and will heal. God Bless you.
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Oh Ryan-I am so sorry. Why is it that as soon as you get a new vehicle it’s like there’s a bullseye on your back?I don’t know how many people I know who’ve got a new(at least to them) vehicle and ended up getting hit not too long after!
Thinking of you and sending good thoughts your way.
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I was in a wrong place, wrong time accident, too. A doped up guy ran a red light and flipped over my mini-van. Not his first OWI. I understand the anger. God bless you.
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Oh Ryan, glad you are mostly OK. I do not like motorcycles but that is me. This didn’t happen because you were diving a bike, you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Hope you get all healed up and feeling better soon
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Holy crap, man. Sorry to hear about it, but glad you’re OK.
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It is just as easy to get in an accident in a car, or on a bicycle, or even walking. No matter how you get around, you can be injured by someone else who is not paying attention. And I totally agree with your statements…. we can fear all sorts of things, but at some point we have to make a decision to live life, or to live in fear of life.
I’m so sorry you were hurt… i’ll be praying for you!
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This song was one of my anthems when I was in the midst of breast cancer treatment. It’s a kind of a prayer in music form. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxFoRAr2sIw xo
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Anyone who would tell you I told you so can just go kiss it!
Take care, heal fast and get right back to it! If you love riding then do it! What makes you happy is what matters!
Hope you have a speedy recovery and that you keep us all posted! I am sure your wonderful wife will make sure of this too!
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Ryan I hope you heal quickly and as a praying person I am sending some up for you. No the accident did not happen because you were on a motorcycle, but the danger is so much greater when you have nothing around you to protect yourself. My husband would love a bike, but my standing argument is we have two little girls who really need their Daddy and while I trust him on a bike I don’t trust other drivers. I hope that you do what is right for you and if that’s getting back on a motorcycle I wish you all the luck in the world. Take care!!!
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I’m sorry for your injuries, your anguish and the loss of your bike but I’m so glad it wasn’t any worse. Hope you heal quickly. Will remember you in my prayers.
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#74 – the imp said everything I would say. PLEASE don’t let the accident or what people will say about it get you down. Praying for you and SO glad you are alive.
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Hi. You are in my thoughts. I’m so very glad you’re alive. The best advice I’ve heard for motorcycles is this. It’s not if it happens. It’s when it happens. Sounds to me like you did the best you can. Don’t let this make you stop riding. Keep being cautious.
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Ryan,
that really sucks! Hope you have supernatural healing and that you feel no pain soon! Please let me know if I can help with driving you anywhere or helping Allison out. Call me and I will check what my days off are. Talk to you soon! Feel better soon!
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I know it’s hard to be taken out of action when you are an active person – been there more than once.
Life is no fun without a little risk. We ride our (pedal) bikes all over with our kids and while we are careful, I’m sure there will be “I told you so’s” if anything happens. I just think it is a worthwhile risk.
This is just one of those life events where you can’t control everything that happens to you, but you can choose how you react. (And remember, your kids are watching!)
Sending healing thoughts your way…
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I’m proud of you for taking the risk and getting the bike. I’m glad you chose joy of riding over “what if?”. Way to refuse a small, safe life!
My husband is a cyclist (the kind without an engine). He’s been hit once and almost hit far more often than that. Motorists don’t look for him, and worse, some are actively aggressive and hateful towards him. But he loves riding and so it’s a risk he chooses to take. It gives him joy.
I will pray for your complete healing, including the healing of your emotions. It’s not too big for God.
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I am so sorry. I agree with some of the other comments. This could have happened in a car, bike, as a pedestrian, etc. Do not fault yourself because you were on a motorcycle. You did what you were suppose to be doing, that’s all you can control.
I pray for your healing to go smoothly and quickly . . . also for your patience as you don’t over work your leg and give it the time it needs to heal.
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This accident probably still would have happened had you been in a car or truck. The old man obviously wasn’t paying good enough attention to see you coming.
Last week, a motorcycle cut between me and another vehicle just as our light turned green to turn right. I saw him in my side mirror just as he was approaching, so I didn’t hit the gas as I normally would have when the light turned. The rider and I ended up at the same destination and he thanked me for paying attention and seeing him coming. If I hadn’t, I probably would have had an accident with him.
All drivers need to just pay attention to their surroundings.
I hope you heal fast, Ryan.
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Will be praying for you and your family.
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Ryan:
I was one who commented in your last post. Thank God you were wearing a helmet! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
The idea that you can’t control other drivers or really even predict them is an idea that, unfortunately, strikes directly home with me. Several years ago my son, a passenger, was struck directly and at full speed by an SUV w/o lights and driven by an unlicensed driver. They sent him by helicopter to Miami Valley in Dayton. By the time we got up there from Cin the Dr told us, and here is a quote I’ll remember verbatim for the rest of my life – “I’m afraid I have no good news for you.” They took him off life support 4 days later.
The only consolation I now have, almost 4 years later, is my Son was out LIVING his life. Life on this Earth is about the journey – its meant to be lived.
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Totally not your fault.
Sorry about the bike.
I hope when you’ve healed that you have the strength to tell the naysayers to bite you and then get another bike.
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I’m sorry to hear about your crash and the loss of the new bike. I know how heartbreaking it can be. But the important thing is that you made it back home to your family, to live another day. I ride as well, and work in Law Enforcement, one thing that I’ve learned is that you can’t control the actions of others, no matter how vigilant or careful you are. There is a saying about bikers.. There are those who have crashed, and those who will crash. Now you’ve gotten that out of the way. lol… The important thing is to make it home at the end of the day! Life is too short to live without taking some chances to enjoy it! My prayers are with you and your family and for a speedy recovery.
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prayers for a speedy recovery! Thank the good Lord you were driving defensively. Take care of yourself!!
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I’m just so glad that you are ok! well, I guess you aren’t exactly ok but… alive. I will be praying for you to be totally healed asap.
love and support (minus any judgment) from Seattle.
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Bummer. I’m so sorry but so very glad that despite the hurt leg, knee and ego you are ok. All those will heal in time.
Really no one should say told you so, though bikes are dangerous and we sold ours when our kids where born, I’m sure you are being hard enough on yourself, that no one else should say a thing to you.
Once again glad you made it out alive. Hope you feel better soon!
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Reading this was like reading about my brother’s accident. An older woman turned in front of him (on his motorcycle), but he wasn’t riding defensively and he did not survive. I’m so very glad you did!
Many prayers and well wishes aimed towards you and a speedy recovery!
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Oh my gosh. I am so sorry. I have said time and time again, older people need to be tested yearly to see if they are capable of operating a motor vehicle. This gentlemen clearly was NOT. I hope they take his license away permanently. I also hope you heal quickly and completely. It wasn’t your fault, you were being a careful COMPETENT driver. I’m sorry, this really makes me mad. I hope you’ll be OK really soon!
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Blessings. Get well quickly. Could have happened to anyone. So glad it was not worse than it was.
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praying for a full recovery and a blessing out of this!
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Sorry you were hurt…glad it wasn’t worse! Hope you are moving fast again, soon. On the bike, and on the feet!
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It sucks that there were skeptics expecting you to get into an accident, but I am so so glad you are okay! That sounds like a horribly frightening ordeal, and I’ll be sure to send you good thoughts and prayers for a fast and full recovery. I’m sure your family (and many others) are thankful that you’re back home to heal with them by your side
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My feet look just like yours right now. Opposite feet but…one swollen. Niece’s wedding reception, groom’s brother stomped on my foot. 3 weeks now, it still hurts. 2 years ago, I fell off a ladder down stairs which i was painting the walls of. Same thing only did a sommersault. Took a year for foot to be ok. I still love old people, he maybe shouldn’t be driving, but he probably doesn’t know that either. Someone’s not watching out for him. God probably is, and you. Old people are awesome, we will all be there some day. Sorry for your accident, but it’s all ok and it will get better. I don’t have my old people anymore, so I embrace them wherever I am. It won’t be all that long…
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Glad you are okay. I will pray for your healing and for peace of mind.
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Lots of prayers sent your way from our family. I am glad you are okay Ryan.
)
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I lurk, but felt the need to wish you a speedy recovery in mind, body, and spirit. You should not feel guilty at all for wanting to ride a motorcycle. More often than not, it’s not the motorcyclist’s fault. I also feel like I need to thank you for wearing a helmet. I’m all for motorcycles, if you at least look out for yourself and wear a helmet. May things progress quickly so you can get back out there!
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Here in the City of Angels….
Praying for you Ryan and your family as your heal from the accident.
That you will hear the Lord speak in a healing and wise way during this time.
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The first thing you need to do is completely ignore anyone who says “I told you so”. There is risk in everything. It sounds to me like you have managed the risks pretty well.
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so sorry about your accident, praying for you for a swift recovery and that you find another bike SOON and get back to riding. God bless.
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prayers for a speedy recovery. i ALMOST got t-boned in my civic when a yukon ran a red light a couple years ago, scared the you-know-what out of me. could have happened to anyone.
good quick thinking in the moment to minimize the crash!
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Stupid!! Not YOU, the driver of the Lincoln!! I hate that this happened to you, Ryan. I grew up in a family of motorcycle riders and married one, and I love them. Accidents are almost NEVER the fault of the motorcyclist because riding a motorcycle teaches you to be hyper-aware of what is around you. It’s the idiots in the cars who feel invincible because of all that steel surrounding them. And you were so smart to slow down, it could have been so much worse.
I’m so sorry for your pain, inconvenience, etc. I hope you heal quickly.
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We’ll be praying for you too Ryan! Isaiah 53:5 and 54:17
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Well…I TOLD YOU SO!!!!
But it doesn’t sound to me like you learned a blasted thing from the experience. So what’s the point in my saying so? You’ll heal.
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Ryan,
I am so sorry you were hurt, I am glad you are still here and I am confident you will have a quick recovery!! Positive thoughts and a whole lotta hope from me to you. Take care of yourself, or better yet, learn to let others take care of you for a little while. It will do your soul, and theirs, a world of good.
Michele
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Prayers for you for a speedy recovery! and hugs too!
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I am so sorry about your accident. Follow the healing directions you receive and don’t let this change your decision to ride.. [ok maybe buy some leathers to wear!] Hope you heal quickly — maybe a lesson in patience for you? Or a better undertanding of those who are less-able to ‘get around’?
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By the way, in Indiana, you can go to the local Motor Vehicles branch and fill out a report on any driver [helps if you have their name or at the least, plate number] anonymously. They receive a letter & form to be filled out by their doctor. Form is then sent back to state office for evaluation… I love my mom – I reported her… she no longer drives and I should have done it sooner. See someone unsafe? Find out how to report them…
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I’m so sorry about your accident Ryan. My heart goes out to you because having had a broken ankle (long time ago and still suffer) and 2 knee replacements, I know how painful those problems can be. You have however; a few good things on your side – you are young and will heal eventually probably back to almost new – everything should be covered by the other party’s insurance (hope he had it) even your pain and suffering – if that’s at all possible – and God is on your side. Wishing you all the best with the knee thing – whatever the results may be – it can hopefully be fixed. Your life cannot be given back to you – so on the up side – at least you are alive. Deepest sympathy my friend.
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Prayers sent for healing quickly!
I can completely relate with your comment:
~“sure you could prevent it…don’t ride a motorcycle.”, but that logic doesn’t work for me.~
People have said that to me about riding horses- that logic doesn’t work for me- it’s who I am & brings me peace, even if I get hurt sometimes.
I hope you are back in the saddle soon!
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I will pray for you. Motorcycles are dangerous but so are cars and airplanes, and like you said stairs could be dangerous too. I pray you recover quickly and fully.
DG
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As a fellow motorcycle rider, I feel your pain. Not the literal pain, but the embarrassment and the desire to prove the motorcycle naysayers wrong. I dumped my bike last year in a gravel parking lot of all things, but I’m hoping that was the last oops for a long time! Get well!
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Ryan,
I have been reading your blog for a while and never commented. But, I just had to this time. I just wanted you to know that you and your family will be in my prayers.
Take care!
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Sending prayers and healing your way.
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I will pray for you. What happened was not your fault. It happened to you, and I’m sorry it did. God will help you through this!
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Glad you are alive. You will heal. And maybe you’ll decide to ride again. You could not have done anything else. As you said, if you use a stove you can get burnt. If you use a pool you can drown. Very best wishes for your recovery.
And to the person who hit you: 83 is too old for driving.
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You and your family are in my prayers. Sending thoughts of positivity and strength your way!
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Ryan – first of all, I am so sorry to hear of your accident. I am praying for a speedy recovery and for your medical bills to be manageable (ask me how I know about the bills after a wreck…).
Almost exactly 1 year ago, my husband and 2 buddies were driving home from dinner at a local restaurant (all 3 on motorcycles, each with a passenger, 6 adults total). One of the other drivers failed to negotiate a curve in the road and struck the 3rd bike, which in turn struck my husband. Without boring you with the details, I’ll just say that only 3 people left the scene of that accident. We were extremely lucky that my husband was one of the survivors, though our medical bills are through the roof, he is still trying to recover from a traumatic brain injury, and now are being taken to court because his passenger was one of the fatalities.
Fate is sometimes tricky. My husband has ridden motorcycles nearly his whole life and has always been the epitome of caution and “proper” motorcycle handling, yet he was (as you said) in the wrong place at the wrong time.
In addition for praying for you, I’m also sending up prayers for your family. I now know what it feels like to get a middle-of-the-night call from the emergency room. I now know what it’s like to have my heart in my throat while trying to stay calm. I now know what it’s like to nurse someone back to health and then see them turn into a stranger due to a brain injury. I now know how it feels to want to personally run that $*#% bike over with my car, yet know that it’s one of his “true loves” and if he wants another one, I’ll try to help him figure out how to get one. But, I also now know what it feels like to truly appreciate every second I get with him – with my children. Life can change in just an instant.
Hug your wife and snuggle your children.
(I apologize for this turning into a novel)
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I’m so sorry you were in an accident! I just can’t understand drivers who react that way. A good friend of ours was on his Harley with his wife (his Harley had *just* had a personalized, beautiful paint job completed.) They were approaching a traffic light, when a car on the cross road decided he didn’t want to wait for the red light, and cut through a gas station parking lot, plowing through the parking lot, and my friend and his wife. They ended up pinned under his vehicle, and he had the audacity to jump out and start cursing them out for messing up his car. Our friend’s arm was terribly shattered. The ortho said it was the worst break he had ever seen….and he was a military doc.
I hope you have a very speedy recovery. Both physically and emotionally.
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I am so sorry…That guy should have gotten more than cited….I mean, doesn’t he have any empathy in his soul for someone he just injured?
You have a great spirit and I am sure your neighbors and friends will come to your aid in this time of need.
I will certainly pray for your recovery and for you to have less pain and suffering. Take care, and know that others will be there to help you as I know you have helped others and they will remember that.
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I’m so glad you weren’t hurt any worse!!!!!!!!
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I am so sorry. I have come from a motorcycle family. My dad, my grandfather, aunt and uncle, and now my hubby drives/ rides. My father swears that one time some little old lady ran him off the road on purpose. Looked at him and continued to push him off the road. Know that you will recover, and if you decide to ride again, the odds are – you won’t have an issue.
Hang in there.
Kristi
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Praying!
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Sorry for your troubles, as a 67 year old, I can get away with this statement, an 83 year old driving a Lincoln is a danger to everyone!
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I’m so sorry. You certainly didn’t cause it, and there’s no need for you to feel embarrassed. God Bless you, and I so hope you heal well and fast! Try not to be angry, it’s always the very thing you tried so hard to avoid or didn’t expect that happens and throws you for loop. Our plans are almost never the same as God’s.
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so to those who would say- I told ya so…they will say that no matter what. I would say..thank goodness for the defensive driving. If you weren’t careful about how you were driving out there – this accident could have been worse and your wife could have been posting instead. Way to keep your head about you. My husband rides and I can’t believe the ppl who ask if *I* am nuts to let him. I’m not his parent. He took all the classes and drives safe…that’s all I can ask for.
As to using the term “violated”…you said that- not rape. Look up the definition it can mean disregard, disrespect or do to harm to. I didn’t take offense at it. Keeping you and your family in my prayers. And hoping your bike is repairable. Thank goodness you slowed down!!!
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Geesh! When it rains, it pours! You certainly have your share of trials lately. This must be your growing season and refiners fire. Keep the faith and keep strong. It sounds like you are just that. I’m sure our kind Heavenly Father is smiling down on you are you handle each situation well that is thrown at you. Hang in there and get well soon!
Val H.
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Bless your heart. It wasn’t your fault, just suppose to happen, so it did. My sister had the same thing happen to her but she was in a car, the people in the other car were extremely lucky the traffic was light but she was the only one hurt…broke her foot. My husband didn’t start through a left turn quickly enough and saved us from being T’d by a red light runner…the people who honked behind us had the funniest looks on their faces. I’m just glad you could tell the tale.
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Sorry to learn about your crash.
As soon as you heal, head back to Craigslist!!
Never, never, never give up! xo
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Oh no! I’m glad to hear you’re ok. Bummer about the Lincoln driver being a bit of a TOOL!
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Here’s to a speedy recovery!
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Pastor Ryan,
Just wanted to let you know that I’m praying for your recovery as well as Finn’s!
God Bless!
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Ryan, I just read this (I’ve been away) and I am so happy that you are OK (well, not 100% but it could have been so much worse). My brother-in-law races motorcycles and I worry so much watching him going 150 mph+ but at least he’s on a track. It’s people like that man who his you that scare the poop out of me, you can never be too careful. Again, I’m just happy you’re OK…
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good golly miss molly.
jon told me about it while camping over the weekend. yeow!
bummed that it happened, and michelle and i are praying for a miraculous recovery.
while you’re all immobilized and stuff, you can work on sending us pictures from the wedding.
(couldn’t help it; i saw the opportunity, and I took it)
love and miss ya pal,
tyler
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Aw Ryan, glad you are ok and praying for a full recovery. Love, Love, Love your blog, wife and bee ute tee full kiddos. My poor husband of 23 years has been wanting a bike for sooooooo long and has also been looking on craigslist AND got his license. I’m a pensive penny about the whole thing. I just read your post to him, he has a pitiful look on his face ;o( It’s the other guy I’m always concerned about. But the big question, are you going to get another bike?
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Hey Ryan – I’ll absolutely remember you (& your foot) as well as your family in prayer. Hope you feel better real soon and the pain gets under control. I know this post is older, so I hope you’re there already! Ciao.
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As a Motorcycle rider as well as wife to one I just want to let you know that I agree with you wholeheartedly! It really buggs me when people say “well if you ride a motorcycle you WILL be in an accident!” Don’t say that! I don’t want that negativity spoken over me!
To those that have told you that I say this…My husband has been riding for WELL over 20 years and has never had an accident! Being on a bike does not automatically mean you’re destined for an injury! Yes things happen, but most of the time they happen because people aren’t being responsible riders, like you were being!
I am all about forgiveness, but it really burns me up that they didn’t charge him with more. People in general need to be more aware of what is around them when driving!!!
I’ll be praying for fast healing for you!
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Hi Ryan, I pop over here once in a great while from Ree’s website and was saddened to hear about your accident. It seems you’re starting to heal up, but I can sure empathize with you about not being able to run around and do stuff. There have been times like that in my life…
The hardest thing to keep in perspective is “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28.
That’s a wonderful life verse and one I’m sure you’ve already discovered is true. God bless you – I’ll be praying for a complete recovery, sooner than later and absolutely zero lasting physical effects.
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Amen, that verse in the bible was one of my favorite. In everything we do or planning to do put God first.
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