Last night, I was struck nearly head-on by a person attempting a left turn as I passed through the intersection. I was injured, as well as the other driver. The police told me that he broke his arm, and was in shock. As I climbed out of my car, I could hear him screaming in pain. I was in a mild shock, and numb with adrenaline. I was also taken to the hospital by ambulance. I have multiple swollen parts, severe bruises, abrasions, and a few lacerations. However, no broken bones. My left collar bone was stressed the most, as it was restrained very strongly by my shoulder harness system. It is a common break point for people over age 35, as that bone is more brittle. My air bag deployed, keeping me from hitting the steering wheel. The airbag also shoved my glasses into the bridge of my nose, cutting my face, and caused other severe abrasions and bruises. The other driver also had his airbag deployed, likely saving him from more serious injury. Both of our cars were totaled, but the damage to his car was worse, as my car is larger, and heavier. I am stiff and in some pain today. Thank God for airbags and seat-belts / shoulder harneses ... and that I was properly wearling my seatbelt and harnes. I was going the speed limit at 40 mph. I guessing the other driver was going about 10 to 15 mph as he turned into my front left quarter. I tried to swerve to the right to avoid him, but it was too late.
The police came to visit me at the emergency room. The officer in charge of the investigation told me that he found the other driver at fault for failing to yield to oncoming traffic. He said that he was issuing a citation to the other driver. I am just pleased that it was not any worse than it was. I am sorry that the other driver was injured, but I am equally sorry that he failed to yield. It ruined both of our Friday nights. He is a younger person, and so should heal faster than I will. I guess that our insurance companies and their lawyers will sort out the numbers.
Anyway, besides hating the stink created by deployed airbags, and the loss of my car, I am good spirits, and I am up and about.
Jim Whitney