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Texasphotographer
 Advanced Member
746 Posts
[Mentor]
Copperas Cove, Texas
USA
Suzuki
2008 C50T
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 Posted - 10/21/2009 : 9:22 PM
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One year ago after experiencing an accident and realizing it was my fault, I was more determined to be the safest rider I could be. Kept a continous scan so I knew where traffic waz and rode so I would be seen although I knew I wanted in my mind to appear just the opposite.
A couple of months ago turned around on a city street and hit some wet grass and suffered so road rash on my knee.
Sunday, I was almost killed as I T-Boned a large doe going 70 MPH. The deer appeared out of no where. Spent three days hospitalized, but got to see my new Shoei full face helmet which is totally scratched and gouged, and covered with deer crap, but there is not a mark on my face, neck or head. That is what I call a great helmet.
m
After I clean off the deer crap, it will go on my wall, but never again on my head. Thank you Shoei company.
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Daddio
Senior Member
357 Posts
[Mentor]
Calera, AL
USA
Suzuki
Bandit 1250
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Posted - 10/21/2009 : 10:06 PM
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We all here have decided to enjoy a dangerous sport. There must be a certain amount of luck combined with the saftey mindset we attempt to acheive. So much is unpredictable. It seems you have had your share of unfortunate events. D*mn - a deer.
I also know a guy that hit a deer in a small car. Came through the windshield and the hoof fractured his wrist. He needed much reconstructive repair on the wrist. Point is - luck happens. Good or bad - two wheels or four. If you know you are trying to be a safe rider, do not let some bad luck chase you away from something you enjoy! |
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Carolfay
 New Member
10 Posts
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
USA
Honda
Shadow Aero
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 1:03 AM
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Well let me be the first to say "Thank goodness you were wearing a helmet."  I am just in the learning phase and can't even imagine going 70 MPH yet. I wear a half helmet now, but I do plan on a full face helmet when I start riding in traffic. It seems by your text that you are really apprehensive about riding. I think you have done everything you should to be a safe rider. You can't predict what may happen, you just have to be as prepared as you can.. I think it is very normal to be nervous about going back out there, but don't stop riding. Unless you have really made up your mind that it is no longer your thing..
Carolfay |
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galileo
Standard Member
128 Posts
Florence, Co
USA
Suzuki
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 4:14 AM
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First of all, I'm glad you weren't injured more seriously. Hopefully your bike is ok, also. One question about the particulars. Did you get a chance to brake before hitting the deer? And were you braking at the time you hit it? Oh, two questions, I guess. Did you attempt to swerve?
You have riden about 15,000 miles. In that time, as I recall, you had an interaction with a car in a parking lot, a crash at an intersection, a drop because of grass and a close call with a barrel.
The barrel also came out of nowhere. When someone made a suggestion to improve your scanning techniques you said anyone would be bored on a long straight road.
Sometimes deer come out of nowhere. So do whales (As in "So Long and Thanks for All the Fish.) There is a youtube video where a deer jumped over a rider. That one truly did come out of nowhere.
The title and the fact that you are putting the post here implies you are asking for advice. Perhaps this advice is unwanted. If so, I'm sorry. Look deep inside yourself and take the answer you know is there. |
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D R
Advanced Member
611 Posts
[Mentor]
Northern, Virginia
USA
BMW
R1200RT
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 4:22 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by Carolfay
Well let me be the first to say "Thank goodness you were wearing a helmet." I am just in the learning phase and can't even imagine going 70 MPH yet. I wear a half helmet now, but I do plan on a full face helmet when I start riding in traffic. It seems by your text that you are really apprehensive about riding. I think you have done everything you should to be a safe rider. You can't predict what may happen, you just have to be as prepared as you can.. I think it is very normal to be nervous about going back out there, but don't stop riding. Unless you have really made up your mind that it is no longer your thing..
Carolfay
Carol,
Why wait? If you plan to get a full face helmet anyway, I respectfully encourage you to get one now. It doesn't take interaction with traffic to land face first in a spill, regardless of the speed.
TexasPhotographer,
Sorry to here it happened again, but glad you came out relatively alright. Heal quickly. |
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Axiom2000
Moderator
527 Posts
[Mentor]
Georgetown, Delaware
USA
BMW
R1200RT/ R1200C
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 4:52 AM
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Texasphotographer,
First of all I am darn glad you are OK, take your time and heel well. Some Type of wildlife running in front of me is one of my biggest fears when riding. I almost have a phobia about it as anytime I am near an area where they may be present I slow way down and go to maximum alert level.
Three serious incidents in a short period of time would require me to ask myself is there something of me that is a cause. I am with Galileo on this one, take some time for some serious reflection.
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Night Train
Moderator
942 Posts
[Mentor]
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Canada
Harley-Davidson
Softail and Touring
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 5:38 AM
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Texasphotographer, I'm very glad that you came out of this collision with the deer as well as you did and I wish you a full and speedy recovery.
I'm afraid I have to concur with Galileo and Axiom2000 on this one. It's definitely time to sit back and do some serious soul searching. There is only so many times one can push fate to the limit before it answers in a permanent manner. I think you have just about reached your limit in that respect. At our age we don't bounce back as quickly as we once did, even from the most minor of injuries, gawd help us if we experience anything of a more serious nature. Your signature states "old is better than the alternative", I submit that the "alternative" is staring you in the face.
To steal a quote for Mr. Spock, "live well and prosper". |
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rayg50
Senior Member
497 Posts
[Mentor]
NYC, NY
USA
Honda
Shadow Spirit 750DC
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 6:05 AM
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Texasphotographer, glad that you are here to tell us of your experience and will add my wish for a speedy recovery. In time if you care to share more details I for one would like the learning opportunity. Get well and as has been mentioned, do some soul searching. My best to you and yours.
Carolfay, I am claustrophobic. My first helmet is/was a 3/4 with a face shield. I felt that there was no way I could wear a full face but this board made me feel I had to at least try. Last year at this time as I began my hunt for a bike I discovered great prices on gear because the season was ending. So to make a long story short I am in shopping mode again and just picked up a full face for 150.94 total cost that a couple of months ago was 269.99 + tax (MSRP 279). That is a 50% savings. I have been wearing it around the house now for about a week and have discovered that I can do this. It is surprisingly comfortable while watching TV on the recliner. I have also, once again, confirmed for my family that I am nuts. They are laughing less so I am making progress on 2 fronts.
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Indiana Randy
Moderator
1758 Posts
[Mentor]
Fort Wayne, Indiana
USA
Honda
2000 Magna V4 750
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 6:29 AM
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Tex, relieved and happy that you are OK.
There is inherent risk involved with choosing to ride a motorcycle.
There is nothing wrong with closing a chapter in one's life. Comes a time every cowboy hangs up his spurs. Doesn't mean he has to move off the ranch.
There are new adventures awaiting. (Like a convertible Miata)  |
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alblancher
Senior Member
379 Posts
slidell, LA
USA
Yamaha
Roadliner
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 6:38 AM
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Teasphotographer
Maybe it's time to look at riding as a part time hobby instead of a means of transportation. Try riding in more controlled situations when you are playing your best game. You mentioned that your first accident was avoidable, it seems that the wet grass accident was avoidable, the deer may or may not be avoidable, are you able to concentrate on your riding when other factors can pull your attention away from the ride.
I am suggesting that you make riding a part-time sport. Ride on great days when you feel good, avoid heavy traffic, avoid rural roads early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Spend more time riding in large empty parking lots just enjoying the ride. It may be time for a bit of a mind change.
I am facing a very similar period of self evaluation after my accident. Once I decide that I can even get back on my bike without fear I will have to consider how to change my riding style. It is quite possible that I will take my own advice and change how often and where I ride.
Al |
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SkootchNC
Senior Member
326 Posts
[Mentor]
raleigh, north carolina
USA
Harley-Davidson
road glide
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 7:43 AM
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Tex,
I am also glad you're still amongst us, Broken bones will mend (slower as we age, but they mend) but the broken spirit, may not.
Deer strikes are the single most unpredictable danger we as riders face. My greatest fear, is a deer strike, while riding through farm areas rich with corn, ready for the harvest.
Neither deer, nor vehicles "come out of nowhere". They are not capable of "teleportaion" ala "star trek". We simply did not see them. Thus, my above stated fear. I "know" deer are in the woods, and usually, I can see into a wooded area, or a field, but "harvest ready corn fields" will hide critters, until the moment of impact.
I take what precautions I can.... I slow down, and ride towards the centerline, covering my brakes, and clutch , just as I would approaching an intersection.
Larry Grodsky, was killed this year, by a deer strike
http://www.lubbockonline.com/storie...106066.shtml
I'll never tell someone whether they should, or should not ride again. That is a deeply personal decision, that is the rider, and the rider's alone.
Should you decide to continue to ride, I urge you to re-take any class available in your area, and if you have to add, overnight lodging to the cost? I believe that is money well spent.
The other wrecks, may or may not have been avoidable ( I wasn't there, and don't have the details) but turning around, on a street, and slipping on grass, is easily avoidable, with PLP.
Heal well, and heal fast
Frank.
Whichever decision you make, please remain a regular here
Carolfay?
Indeed, why wait, until you are riding on the streets, before buying, and using a full face helmet. A simple drop from the bike, at PLP speeds, against concrete, or asphalt, will be enough to hurt, and the half-helmet is (imo) a fashion statement... not a safety device, at least get a 3/4
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cooldadof4
Junior Member
34 Posts
Houston, Texas
USA
Yamaha
Vstar 1100 Silverado
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 9:26 AM
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Tex:
So sorry to hear of your crash, and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
I just got back on my bike this week after a crash 3 1/2 weeks ago. Only you can decide your correct course of action from here on out, and I pray that you make the correct decision.
One of my best friends (and next door neighbor) CUT A DEER IN HALF in Billings Montana as he made his way back to Houston after visiting Washington and Oregon about 3 weeks ago. He is still in rough shape, but recovering. Deer are a tough situation.
http://www.billingsgazette.com/news...4c03286.html
I hope all goes well for you.
Regards,
Don
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scottrnelson
Advanced Member
4748 Posts
[Mentor]
Pleasanton, CA
USA
Ducati
ST2, 888, + XR650L
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 9:34 AM
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It can be a difficult decision to figure out whether or not to keep riding after crashing a motorcycle. Back in about 1986 I lost the front end from braking a bit too hard and went down, leaving me with some road rash on my right hand and one knee. I didn't even want to look at a motorcycle for a couple of weeks after that. But I got over it and kept on riding.
Exactly six years ago I had a wrecked bike in the garage and my hand in a cast, but I was already looking for a replacement bike because I had finally figured out that I'm obsessed with motorcycles and have to have one (or two or three).
If you don't feel the strong desire to ride anymore it might be a good time to move on to other things. I get approximately the same enjoyment driving around in a convertible that I would riding on a big touring bike or cruiser down straight roads. I probably enjoy the convertible more when going slow and straight. But I love riding twisty roads on all of my bikes and enjoy it more than I would in a capable sports car (I used to have an S2000). So I need to have a motorcycle to ride.
I wish you well in the healing process and hope that you can work out a satisfactory solution for what you want to do in the future. |
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Niebor
Advanced Member
2793 Posts
[Mentor]
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
USA
Harley-Davidson
03' Superglide
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 11:28 AM
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Ouch! Glad your still with us.
I sense a change in attitude, where you may have taken a serious look at accountability. That change, perhaps more than any, could be the difference in your riding safely.
The decision to ride comes from within. I gave up riding as a commuter sport decades ago. Just too dangerous mixing it up where everyone has an agenda and is running late. We ride on Sunday. If you've ever been in Denver on Sunday during football season, it has to be the largest ghost town in history. The point is when not commuting you can adjust times and circumstance to avoid many of the pitfalls that besiege us as riders. The bad news is Bambi could care less the Broncos are playing.
We will change a route for example to avoid riding into the sun where Bambi might want to challenge us. They are much easier to spot with the sun behind you. |
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ananga73
Junior Member
28 Posts
Windsor Mill, MD
USA
Suzuki
M90
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 11:30 AM
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Texasphotographer,
Nothing more I can add to what has already been said. ALL I can wish you is a speedy recovery.
Regards, |
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SteveS
Advanced Member
998 Posts
[Mentor]
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
Harley-Davidson
FLHTCU '08 Ultra
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 1:16 PM
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Very sorry to hear of your most recent crash Texasphotographer. And I'm glad you are still around to write about it.
Sounds like you have a lot to think about given what your recent history has been. I think you can tell that this group would support your decision whatever it may be.
I also agree that now you likely have some time for reflection and you will come to the right answer for yourself.
Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
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RHaynes
Junior Member
35 Posts
Dudley, MA
USA
Yamaha
96 Virago 750
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 2:16 PM
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Tex, My sympathies and hopes for a speedy recovery. Having done my own deathdefying recovery (not my fault. Really, I was 7 and asleep with a seatbelt on) I can comiserate with 3 days spent in a hospital bed. I'm glad you're essentially ok. I hope the bike made it too. In reference to your sig, please *stay* Old, the alternative isn't to be contemplated.
In the vein others have taken, I hope your reflection brings about the right choice about riding for you. Only you can answer if you should keep going or not, but I'll be hoping you Stay Safe.
And Carol, I have to agree, why wait? You're ever so much more protected with a full chinbar. Any helmet has no helmet beat hands down, but I prefer the full-face protection. If you think you need the 1/2 to 'listen' to things, I promise you, you can hear everything you need to (assuming your hearing isn't compromised from something else) You Stay Well too! |
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The Meromorph
Advanced Member
596 Posts
[Mentor]
White House, TN
USA
BMW
R1100R
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 3:26 PM
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The level and depth of the responses here, to your post, should be telling you something... you are a loved, valued, and respected member of this community.
I can't offer much advice from my own experience, apart from zero or low speed drops, I've only ever had one crash, too much front brake on a new bike, my first with disk brakes, in an emergency stop. And I only scraped one knee...
I know, from here more than anywhere, that my focus has to be both complete, and unfocused, when I'm riding. "Focus - no Focus" is the Zen principle I espouse. I occasionally lapse from that for a few minutes or seconds. If it's a few minutes, I have pulled over, taken a break, and re-aligned my mind. It takes about 5 miles for me to get fully 'into it', on each ride.
It's different in PLP, that's solely focused on what I'm working on at that moment.
I believe that only actual riding experience enables the achievement of that state. The learning, practice, theory, and analysis are all essential, and continuing, groundwork. The state of mind is both the objective, and, in many ways, the reward. I don't just enjoy riding, I enjoy riding well.
I hope this is useful to you, as you decide what to do...
Heal up, body and mind, and choose your path with care and thoughtfulness.
I'm sure we're not the only ones who love you and care about you. |
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Texasphotographer
Advanced Member
746 Posts
[Mentor]
Copperas Cove, Texas
USA
Suzuki
2008 C50T
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 3:34 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by galileo
First of all, I'm glad you weren't injured more seriously. Hopefully your bike is ok, also. One question about the particulars. Did you get a chance to brake before hitting the deer? And were you braking at the time you hit it? Oh, two questions, I guess. Did you attempt to swerve?
You have riden about 15,000 miles. In that time, as I recall, you had an interaction with a car in a parking lot, a crash at an intersection, a drop because of grass and a close call with a barrel.
The barrel also came out of nowhere. When someone made a suggestion to improve your scanning techniques you said anyone would be bored on a long straight road.
Sometimes deer come out of nowhere. So do whales (As in "So Long and Thanks for All the Fish.) There is a youtube video where a deer jumped over a rider. That one truly did come out of nowhere.
The title and the fact that you are putting the post here implies you are asking for advice. Perhaps this advice is unwanted. If so, I'm sorry. Look deep inside yourself and take the answer you know is there.
I appreciate the concern and the candid advice. I am not looking for excuses to make me feel better regarding the conflict with the deer. I am asking myself (maybe beating up myself) but was I doing an active scan, could I have avoided the deer if I were driving slower (was doing 70 on a two lane road which was the speed limit) All of a sudden I saw the deer to my right and not sure if I sqeezed any brake or not just thought: Danm a deer will I avoid it? And, no I did not.
Think the bike is totalled, but have not received the estimate from the dealership. My son told me the engine bars are bent way back and the running lights are torn.
Thank you all for your comments. Maybe I have been protecting my Ego, but honestly do not think so. The eposide with the barrell was a non-event due to scanning, maybe the scan could be more active, but what does that mean. The car that hit me at the gas station. Yes, I realize it takes two to have a two vehicle collision, but I was practically still at the gas pump when she pulled into a non-parking area and t-boned me. The wet grass on the street. Well, I would not have gone down if I had not decided to turn around. So, if turning around is the cause of concern I should have been concerned. There is a lot of wet grass on my street (I posted a photo of that a few weeks ago) since I know its there I take necessary precaucautions. That is what I call defensive driving.
These are not excuses, but solid facts as I view my riding abilities and frailities. |
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gymnast
Moderator
2211 Posts
[Mentor]
Meridian, Idaho
USA
Harley-Davidson
Sportster Sport
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Posted - 10/22/2009 : 10:24 PM
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| All things considered, including your age (which is similar to mine), perhaps it is time to "park it" and go on to the next great adventure. There is, in the end, no point in pursuing a passion to the point that it consumes you and leaves you disabled or worse. |
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bachman1961
Advanced Member
952 Posts
[Mentor]
colorado springs, co
USA
Honda
CB750 NightHawk
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Posted - 10/23/2009 : 4:00 AM
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Texasphotographer;
Sorry to hear the D*mn Deer story and all of it's effects, but glad you are able to sit at the keyboard and share the event with us.
On another thread related to braking and braking practice at higher speeds, a member posted their experience gained in emergency stops from higher speeds on country roads due to deer jumping out pretty frequently. I envisioned that after reading of it and thought about having a few of those at 50 + mph to zero pucker moments via the venison. It wouldn't take more than one or two of those experiences to get me on a different route or factor in a lower speed on that route.
For me that member really drove home the fact that a long country road I can see down for miles with a 60 mph speed limit is nothing but a trap set by the width, tall grass, berms to the sides and those d*mn deer trees.
Take your time, heal well and share your time with family and friends. Priorities will eventually settle into place and through a 'process' all these ingredients will help you in your decision. 
~brian
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