Originally Posted by
kmcrawford111
Lately I have been thinking about just what would happen if I did get hit by a car while commuting. I know some of you have experience, so let's hear about it. Of course it will vary by situation, but what's the chance of getting killed or seriously injured? I often hear about taking the lane, but it seems to me that if you are going to get hit, doing so while moving into the lane, or being in the middle of the lane, would be more likely serious (more likely run over). Being on the right side or moving to the right would seem to more likely result it getting knocked away to the side, which might be safer than getting knocked the other way, possibly into more auto traffic, or getting run over.
People around me seem to think that getting hit would mean certain death, but I'm not convinced. I would think a rider would more likely be knocked off their bike with road rash... not pleasant of course but it seems things could be worse. Then again... what about whiplash?
Is there anything I can expect to happen if I do get hit, or is it totally unpredictable? What can be done to try to minimize injuries or save my life in the event of a collision?
Etc..
I've been hit three times; every time it was a surprise. If I could have done anything to mitigate the situations, I would have.
Every time I was hit it was with the car at a relatively low speed... I obviously survived each hit. The only thing I came away with lesson wise was to wear a helmet. I had a headache for 2 weeks with one of the collisions... I was not wearing a helmet.
I don't want to think about a high speed collision with a car... (meaning the car is moving fast... ) the image in my mind is not pretty. I doubt a helmet would do anything for you under those conditions.