A little spooked
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 151
Likes: 0
From: bay area, california
A little spooked
So I was coming home from work the other day and stuck in a traffic mess, as I come up to the accident ahead I see 6 cars all smashed and on the side highway. When I look back I see a motorcycle lying on the ground, and a man lying on the ground. He's leg was turned the wrong way and blood was just pouring out he's mouth. I can't get this thought out my head, I know before I started to ride, you are always taking a risk, and I have accepted that but this vision if affecting my confidence on my bike. I been riding for 3 years and would like to think I been becoming a good rider. Over the weekend I was taking my normal ride and everything was fine until I hit the highway, I got spooked almost scared, I was thinking about going down and that is a big no no. Like the saying goes, you end up where your looking at , and in may case was the ground. I was second guessing myself and it felt like I was having a panic attack. All I was thinking about was my 5 year old boy, my wife and that poor guy on the floor.I love riding my bike and I just want to ride like I use to no thoughts just instinct and confidence. Any of you had something like this happen to you? Thanks for listening and be safe.
6th Gear
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Hallsville, Tx
I believe what you are feeling is perfectly normal. When we start to get complacent is when things happen because we feel confident. I always tell my Paramedic students that they should be nervous going to a call no matter how long they have worked in the business, it's what keeps you on your toes. I have been in EMS over 26 years and still learn from calls when I'm not teaching at my main job. The way you are feeling and thinking will keep you more aware of surroundings. I feel bad for the rider you described but not knowing his experience level or what actually happened it's hard to put yourself there. As someone once told me we all have an expiration date we just don't know when. I guess all we can do is enjoy life to the fullest with our families and friends. Remember that even though we take a risk every time we ride, we can also be hit by bus walking across the street and never get near our bikes.
Eddie
Eddie
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 377
Likes: 5
From: Central California
Thats why I didn't get back on a bike until the kids were out of the house and in college. Figured it was my time then and if I met my maker, they would be fine. That's just me though. Everyone has their own reasons for doing things. Take it slow for a while, and don't make any rash decisions you'll regret later.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 8,039
Likes: 1,305
From: Jayhawk Country
I have seen a lot of bad accidents over the years. Was on a ride with a group and the guy behind me went down, I thought he was dead for sure. Even watched my brother in law take his last breath right before my eyes. I never thought I would be the same after that one, non motorcycle related. These things definitely can have an adverse affect on you. Most of the time it will pass. Take a break and hug your wife and kid. You will know when it's time to get back on the bike.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: North Carolina
I almost went over the handlebars of a sport bike on a steel grate section of a bridge because a guy locked his brakes up, was common where i lived and I had a new baby... sold the bike the next weekend.
A few months later I bought a cruiser and took slower shorter trips. Last year after a deployment I wasn't feeling it so I took most the season off, don't know why I had the feeling but I didn't fight it.
Sounds like you need a break to clear the fear, but I don't think anyone on the forums will try to convince you a motorcycle is the safest way between bars if that's what you are looking for.
A few months later I bought a cruiser and took slower shorter trips. Last year after a deployment I wasn't feeling it so I took most the season off, don't know why I had the feeling but I didn't fight it.
Sounds like you need a break to clear the fear, but I don't think anyone on the forums will try to convince you a motorcycle is the safest way between bars if that's what you are looking for.
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Supporter
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5,189
Likes: 16
From: N.E. Wisconsin
Yeah, seeing bad accidents can shake you up, but ya gotta have big nuts and forget it to survive ! 
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Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,692
Likes: 22
From: Denham Springs, La
Sometimes, even reading a post like yours gives me the heebie jeebies. The next time I get on the bike, I am extremely aware of everything going on around me. It's a little nerve wracking but after a while I realize I'm doing everything I can to stay safe and I'm OK again. Some things are out of our control. The urge to ride sooner or later overcomes my fear.