I'm just posting this to get it off my chest and vent a little to a group that, I hope, understands.

Starting from the beginning....

I had to run a non bike-friendly errand at lunch yesterday (had to pick up a bari sax, and I do not have a cargo trailer), so I didn't get to ride into work. (this, of course, makes my whole day feel off) So, I decided to go ride after work. (I'm usually busy on Tuesday evenings anyway)

So, at this point in the tale I'm on the MUP at the park (The River Legacy Park for DFW folks who know it) riding along about 19-20 mph (the posted limit for the trail is 20mph), I'm coming around a curve when AUGH!! An entire group of people, 1 child and five adults, is standing across the full width of the trail (it is a concrete trail split with a double solid yellow line). NONE of them make ANY EFFORT to move, they just stand there gawking. I slammed on my brakes so hard I started to skid. I had to squeeze my brakes in short bursts to try to slow down at all, but it was not enough. The poor child was in front of the entire group, in my lane and I couldn't dodge her. I caught her handle bar in the spokes of my front wheel and went down, full body, into the concrete. I think she was okay, I didn't leave until her father said I could. In the end, I cut my calf, and broke the lever for my front brake. (not too serious a break, though, I can still stop with it, but it now needs to be replaced.)

I was all at once furious and stricken with guilt. I was furious at myself for not being more careful and avoiding the collision. (not sure how I would) I was also furious at every single adult in the group for not having the sense to get out of the way. Mostly, I feel terrible for hitting that poor child. I managed to drop a lot of speed, but I just couldn't stop. (I couldn't really ditch to the side of the trail either, since it is lined with trees)