The Chainlink

Help! I'm scared to ride my bike again!

I'm new to this site, it was recommended to me by a friend at work. I was recently in an accident, the car cut me off, failed to yield to my bike lane and I ran into the passenger side door. Although I was very lucky not to get seriously injured (I have a sprain and a tear in my wrist, but nothing that a wrist brace can't fix) I have grown incredibly scared to go back on a bike. My bike needs a lot of repairs and I can't even begin to imagine when I will have to courage to get back on. I hate that sometime that I once found so enjoyable has been taken away from me!!!

I've chosen to take the legal route and I'm already regretting it, trying to get money from State Farm is really a pain.

Any advice?

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Permalink Reply by Duppie on October 25, 2010 at 4:04pm
Permalink Reply by Leah Jone on October 25, 2010 at 4:15pm
On Friday afternoon I rode for the first time since my September crash... Stayed on the lake front path and smiled at every person I passed. I haven't ridden on the streets yet. I need a new helmet and need to transfer my lights... and get the courage up to ride with cars. I plan on hitting up the support group this week as well, need it more than I expected.

I guess I just wanted to say that you aren't alone in being afraid to get on the road, but it feels wonderful even to hit the lake path and feel two wheels again.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on October 25, 2010 at 5:37pm
Leah and Cricket are leading you in the right direction. After my crash i hopped on the Lake Shore Path for my first few rides. Group Rides are a great way to get comfortable as well.

And the crash support group seems like a great idea as well.

Best thing, if you don't feel like riding on a day, don't ride. Don't rush your recovery cause you feel like you have to.

Good luck!
Permalink Reply by mike w. on October 25, 2010 at 5:53pm
Speaking for myself, i've found that the longer i'd wait to ride after a crash the harder it was to get back on. But if you're banged up, take the time to fully heal up. Take advantage of a support group, have your bike fixed by someone you have confidence in if you yourself don't wrench, ride quiet paths and side streets for awhile. Riding with friends is a great idea. The season is winding down for a lot of folks now, but try to get back on as soon as your healing and the weather allows. After a few quiet rides, you'll probably regain your confidence pretty quickly.

Hope you recover from your bruises and bumps soon and that your bike is restored as well. Good luck!
Permalink Reply by John on October 25, 2010 at 6:11pm
You have been given some excellent advice. The only thing I could add is to ride with a group of friends to help build your confidence, and gradually whittle down the number until you are confident riding on your own too. There are lots of people who will support you, so telling them is a great first step. Hang in there!
Permalink Reply by Leah Jone on October 25, 2010 at 6:23pm
I second calling Jim. He's great (and my lawyer, too).



Cricket said:
Contact Lawyer Jim's firm for some help navigating the legal part of your situation: http://lawyerjimfreeman.com/

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