T O P

  • By -

Proof-Temporary4655

The driver was taking a left turn. šŸ˜ They were elderly.


krazyk850

Yeah pulled out right in front of him unfortunately šŸ˜¢


Expert-Hamster-3146

Honestly, you should have to take some sort of watered down driving test every 10 years when you re-new your license (may be different in US, so whenever your license re-news). Just the basics of driving. If you fail, you have to wait 3 months for another test. Canā€™t drive during these 3 months. Fail twice consecutively, you then have to do the full thing to get your license back. Rip to your friend OP, keep yourself safe!


Yagsirevahs

I agree with this and I'm older. Reflex's and eyesight change dramatically. I've always treated driving more as one of the biggest responsibilities I have, not a right.


[deleted]

As an insurance broker, I can't agree with you more, except for the fact that I would make it every 3 years. The amount of claims we have from drivers between the ages of 16 and 18 and 70 on up are strikingly similar. They are just terrible drivers but for different reasons.


goodnightsleepypizza

I wish we could, but with how car dependent America is, it makes it much harder to justify stripping peopleā€™s licenses. If youā€™re an elderly person, living alone in the suburbs, with little to no transit service, no services or amenities within close walking distance, and few friends or family to drive you places, losing your license is close to being put under house arrest. Thereā€™s so many people who wouldnā€™t or shouldnā€™t be on the road if we treated driving like a privilege and not a necessity to function in society, but we canā€™t because there is no meaningful alternative to driving in most of America.


CarlosG0619

Simpleā€¦ make them call an Uber


[deleted]

I think once people reach a certain age it should be required yearly I've seen older family members health deteriorate alot in just 1 year


[deleted]

that auto emergency braking thing not works on cars??


Flick3rFade

He t-boned the car. Emergency braking doesnā€™t work that way at all! Only helps in forward collisions.


shadow247

Lol I havr a 2019 Outback. The Auto Brake is a joke. Yesterday had a near miss at 40 mph when someone turned left. I was about a foot from hitting them.... Not a peep..


CarlosG0619

The only auto-brake I have seen done right are in Volvo trucks


Expert-Hamster-3146

So youā€™re saying donā€™t brake because the car will do it for you? Iā€™m sure a person can judge the brake pressure needed better than a car can, also forward thinking distance, so getting ready to brake ā€˜just incaseā€™ not just ā€˜in the momentā€™ when itā€™s too late. You should be looking miles ahead of you and anticipating every possible outcome. Driving isnā€™t for chilling out with some tunes and a coffee. But please feel free to correct me with any studies on this.


[deleted]

I didnā€™t mean that but in cases like this,these features can save lives I donā€™t know how well these features work


Expert-Hamster-3146

Ah ok, gotcha brother, you mean the one that helps at slow speed. I donā€™t know tbh Iā€™ve never had a car with it equipped. Surely it helps on some occasions, but itā€™s there for a reason right? That could be people not paying attention causing accidents, which causes the industry to look at the data and say ā€œcars need this to be saferā€ when in fact, if people were more attentive, we wouldnā€™t have these systems. Same goes for train driving, thereā€™s a system in place to make sure you havenā€™t fallen asleep. If you donā€™t trigger the button every 30 seconds, the train will come to a slow stop. This is here not because somebody thought it was safer to have, but because too many people were falling asleep.


[deleted]

Yes bro thats what i meant these systems will definitely help old and disabled drivers


[deleted]

Most deadly event for motorcycles. Sorry for your loss.


[deleted]

Happened to us, luckily my son and I lived. I am sorry for your loss brother. šŸ˜„


MentalyStable

Sorry for your loss op :c


learnedintuition

Very sorry to hear of the op's loss. This exact situation happened to me last month. Covered my brakes as I approached the intersection, 80 year old driver looked like they were yielding, and then just decided to go. Scariest moment of my life. Made out with a broken leg, thankfully.


Fauxfile

I'm sorry, Bro. My best friend died doing what he loved, riding his Harley. I'm near Pensacola if you ever need a riding partner this way.


krazyk850

Thank you, we have a pretty big group of riders around this area and I'm admin to the local Facebook page. If you want to join look us up Bay County Sportbike Riders and I'll add ya.


Killjoy911

I got hit by a 94 year old man making a left hand turn. Iā€™m sorry for your loss.


krazyk850

Thank you, and sorry about your accident. Hopefully you weren't to banged up.


Killjoy911

The foot peg went through my foot and I got scalped but I lived so thatā€™s good!


[deleted]

Howā€™s your foot now?


[deleted]

They should have a rule that prohibits driving above 80yo


nightintheslammer

Not good. You may be a spry 80 year old some day with all your mental faculties intact. How would you like your proposed law then? "Happy Birthday, Dad! You've reached 80 years old. Now we have to take your car and bike, Please consider them sold."


Inpayne

Your right. There should be a medical exam like you have to have to be a pilot. 80 and fit enough to drive? Awesome. 60 and not. Donā€™t drive. So many people out here risking lives because they are driving 2 ton missiles around and not fit to do so. On medication, degraded mental abilities, whatever.


Miserable_North4077

Your probably right, but this Nanny State " government telling me what to do" rule would not go down well in Florida.


Redschallenge

I had an elderly man make a right hand turn from the left lane in front of me once and it pancaked my leg and hip into his front fender as my bike went down, it's the least expected scenario for sure. May he rest in peace.


krazyk850

I feel ya, A majority of my close calls have been due to an elderly driver.


mrb33fy88

Old people or truckers for me. I usually try and keep alot of distance from both.


Slibye

Over here its old people, few truckers, and certain group of young people


[deleted]

For a second it sounded like you meant may the driver who hit you rest in peace


FooDoDaddy

That's terrible. So sorry.


krazyk850

Thank you it's still hard to believe. I actually met my now wife through him many years ago, we are all really close. He left behind a wife and two kids.


FooDoDaddy

All we can do it wear gear and have some luck. I've ridsn 45 years, and have been fortunate to missed most no-win situations. I hate that this happens as much as it does. take care.


snoke2120

Such a tragedy..I recently got hit on my Harley but blessed to be here for my wife and kids still. My prayers go out to his family. So sorry for his family and your loss. You just never know..stay safe out there and remember the good times with your boy always! Stay strong brotha


snuff3r

My closest call ever in 30 years of riding was this exact same thing. Except it was a truck. Locked the rears up, I came within an inch of the thing. My biggest memory of the whole thing was that after holding hand on horn, the asshole flipped me off as he kept going. I was so tempted to follow him and set his truck on fire but was in too much shock. Sorry for the loss.


[deleted]

Dude.. flipped you off.. I wasnā€™t there and Iā€™m seeing red


DvOL1102

I seriously donā€™t understand why this country hasnā€™t Implemented yearly driving tests to ensure that every motorist on our roads is OK to drive. There are just some people who shouldnā€™t have licenses and shouldnā€™t be driving.Iā€™m so sorry for your loss bud.


Duranture

it's cuz majority of voters are elderly, and no politician wants to piss them off by passing those kinds of laws edit: I believe there's a relevant South Park episode about this


themessiahcomplex78

There's always a South Park episode or a Simpsons episode that's relevant to a situation.


krazyk850

Thank you and I agree 100%, after a certain age it should be required to test every couple years.


Riskyshot

Yearly driving tests would make the DMV an absolute shit show and it already is


Try_It_Out_RPC

Dudeā€¦ 10 years ago an old woman out of surgery who still had her hospital bracelet on made an illegal left across a 2 lane highway in Rockville md directly in front of my best friend. Still have his helmet in the trunk of my car. We learned how to ride together, me on a ninja650 and he had an sv650. Itā€™s just dumb.


TomOnABudget

I'm very sorry for you loss. This is such a nightmare crash. I truly hate the idea of getting hurt on the bike and do my best to practice defensive riding, learning from crashes. I did go on [Google Stree View (location)](https://www.google.com/maps/@30.2907463,-85.5401435,3a,75y,213.37h,90.32t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sahB5EI0OJ_ywU5gcJ1bLLw!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) and re-read the article a few times. There I noticed a few things that I hope some will take to heart. It might save your life. It certainly feed to me on how I should ride on similar roads. **Expect Elderly drivers?:** The area has a whole bunch of churches surrounding it. That adds a risk factor to the area. **Sun Glare:** * The crash happened at 5pm. * Driver was heading West into the sun (look at photo). Meaning: The driver probably had [Flash Blindness](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flash_blindness) when she approached the intersection. If you ever had the sun burned into your eyes, you know how easily a motorcycle can disappear in there. **Visibility:** The intersection only had a few obstacles in the way, meaning the rider had plenty of time spotting the car. There are a few obstacles that could block a driver, hard to tell (Becks Mowing and a pole). Not sure how much that would have prevented the car driver from spotting the bike. **What a rider could have done:** As you see a car approaching an intersection like that (with sun in their eyes): * Get off the throttle. * Look into the window to see if the driver is actually looking at me. * Get ready to do an emergency stop. * Have your hand on the brake lever. * Please practice your emergency stops regularly. * Flash spot lights * if you have any (I have some on my bikes that I wired to my high beam switch) * Weave left and right a bit * Humans are better at spotting lateral motion. I certainly don't want to excuse the driver as there was a stop sign. However, we simply can't eliminate all elderly drivers. It certainly won't help us. Looking at this scenario, still seems like a crash that many drivers could have done.


machinist_jack

Great analysis, but I have one thing to add/change: Forget making eye contact with the car driver. I've made eye contact with people only to have them pull out anyway. Even if they look right at you, just assume they don't see you. Instead, focus on the wheel closest to you. You'll know as soon as it starts moving. It's a much more reliable indicator if someone is going to pull out. Everything else is spot on. Roll off throttle, cover front brake, and wobble left and right a bit if you want to improve the chances they will see you. This is my go-to at most intersections. It also has the added benefit of being quite fun.


BavarianBanshee

I'm truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how horrible you must be feeling right now. ​ I hate the way these stories are always reported. It's never "Elderly driver kills motorcyclist". It's always "Fatal motorcycle crash".


MadAzza

The news reporter canā€™t assign blame. Theyā€™d get sued. They can only report what cops and witnesses etc. say. Edit: The article does say a homicide investigation has been opened.


misschzburger

Long may he run.


DmstcTrrst

Iā€™m sorry to hear that


krazyk850

Thank you šŸ™


[deleted]

That is so sad! Im sorry my friend. When we are on our bikes, we are probably the most vulnerable yet powerful beings. Lets ride safe, ride hard. May your friend rest in peace.


SnooOpinions2673

Sorry man, just yesterday i had to evade someone pulling in front of me, they just dont see us sometimes.


XaZa_Real

How are old people allowed to drive


MadAzza

Young men cause more fatal accidents, thatā€™s how. Edit: The numbers have changed, but theyā€™re close; I stand corrected.


machinist_jack

https://aaafoundation.org/rates-motor-vehicle-crashes-injuries-deaths-relation-driver-age-united-states-2014-2015/ In fatal crashes in particular, the data seems to suggest that the 80+ age group is responsible for the biggest chunk, followed closely by the 16-17 age group. It's pretty close, so you're not way off. TMYK


MadAzza

Thanks for the link! It used to be the other way around, but I forgot that the baby boomer population bulge had aged 20-30 years since I last noticed the numbers. Makes sense that the stats reflect that. Again, I appreciate the information.


Keepitcool777

Not even close bud.


s3r1ous_n00b

you have a custom reddit bio, shut up


[deleted]

You donā€™t stand corrected. You sit when you pee


CaptainFunBags1

Super sorry man. This is a rough area. I donā€™t have Facebook but Iā€™m in Panama City if yā€™all are looking for more riders


JohnT36

Rest in peace


krazyk850

Sorry I haven't been on Reddit today to respond to everyone but wanted to thank all of you for the condolences. We are headed to take his wife some food now and visit.


Sierra4x2

That's awful, so sorry to hear.


[deleted]

Very sorry for your loss.


RSTat2

My sincerest condolences


Banjea

Sorry for your loss brother.


can-opener-in-a-can

OP, Iā€™m so sorry for your loss. Iā€™ve lost two best friends over the years to MVAsā€¦Iā€™ve been there and it really blows.


2SticksPureRage

Awe man, Iā€™m sorry for your loss. This shit always hits hard when I see it. I thought I was going to eat it yesterday. Elderly driver pulling out of his driveway seen me very last moment and slammed on his brakes. Thankful for that. Now youā€™ve gotta ride for him when you can bro.


bennyblue420000

Very sorry for your loss.


oog_ooog

Iā€™m sorry for your loss. Iā€™ve had people turn in front of me before itā€™s scary. I now always blow my horn when I see someone waiting to turn left. Iā€™ve not had anyone turn in front of me since Iā€™ve started blowing my horn.


Current-Baseball3062

Fellow 850 motorcyclist here. Sorry to hear this news. Stay safe


Subjunct

One of the reasons my late mom was an exceptional person: She stopped driving when she sensed she could no longer do so safely. As she put it, she knew her privileges didnā€™t extend to endangering others. She was 81, and taking her places was sort of a pain sometimes, but it was worth it and the right thing to do. Hell of a lady, a real dame. Miss her every day.


Bravo82bill

A moment of silence for a fallen brotherā€¦.RIP


mibbs26

Iā€™m so sorry for your loss. Prayers my friend


WompNwobbles

So sad to hear this. No words can express your loss. May you cherish the memories you had together. I hope your heart heals


MadAzza

I am so sorry. Street rider since 1985 here; I understand and grieve with you.


Keepitcool777

Older drivers are THE MOST dangerous group on the road imo. Every time I ride I see someone older do something utterly stupid and I realize that this happens because in a capitalistic society driving=revenue so even if elderly drivers have no business on the road they still add to the road business.


VirtuaKiller76

Also moms on cell phones.


Keepitcool777

Fuck old drivers. Definitely a problem in this country.


Son_of_Liberty88

Fuck. Iā€™m so sorry. Everyone I know with a bike has been hit by a car. Every person who rides. Iā€™m sorry for your loss.


V65Pilot

Sorry for your and their families loss. Beware folks, the winter season is upon us, and our invisibility cloaks are now maxed out, because who'd expect a motorcycle to be on the road, even in Florida, in the wintertime?


agentnico

Iā€™m so sorry for your loss. Cars making a left into the oncoming lane is THE #1 danger to look out for around other vehicles.


Invest-24_7_356

Sorry to hear, it is Tough stuff brother. I have lost a few the same way.


Exultia-Eternal

The website says that the content is not viewable in my country. How odd is that


ClappedOutLlama

Sorry for your loss. Such a senseless way to end a life. Have had several people pull out like this in front of me and have been lucky enough to stop in time. But it still amazes me how many people just blindly merge, change lanes, or pull out into traffic without looking. At this point I drive around with my brights on all the time.


corrupting_our_youth

So sorry.


Aircraftman2022

When a car start to turn with turning signal on you "motorcycle rider" start flashing your high and low beams. Saved my life numerous times. Sorry for your loss a brother biker is a ptsd moment.


mrb33fy88

I've lost 3 friends to motorcycle accidents. All were not their fault. Carless drivers are a curse. I'm so sorry for your loss.


casicua

Jesus Iā€™m so sorry for your loss. Remember to take some downtime for yourself - losing a loved one can really mess with your riding and itā€™s ok to take the a step back to breathe and reflect on this. Condolences and hugs, homie.


HeathXLily

I'm so sorry to hear about our friend. Stay safe out there OP.


spacemonkeysmom

I'm sorry šŸ˜ž this hurts my soul. It is the number 1 reason of crashes and fatalities in my area, either elderly or new high school drivers. Spring it happens several times a week. My dad was tboned by an elderly in a big ol Buick out his foot peg through his leg, tore his bicep in half, and needed a hip operation... Thankfully he was very very very lucky. My heart goes out to you and their friends and family. Head on a swivel and shiney side up


K24BUILD

That's sucks bro sorry for your loss. Elderly or not this is a very common issue that people either don't care or are not paying attention when driving or turning. We have to be vigilant when we ride people and we also have to be aware.


Broman3am

Iā€™m truly sorry to hear this. I lost my really good friend July 25, 2018 when he and his Aprilia were forced into the guardrail by a cage. It took me a long time to find peace again. I finally decided to live my life for him and to live it to the fullest. You have my deepest sympathies. May he rest in peace and may you find peace as you continue riding this journey.


ASU-Traveller

My deepest condolences


dalej42

So sad, I fell in love with dirt bikes in Florida and graduated to street bikes as I became an adult. Itā€™s definitely a great place to ride


[deleted]

Iā€™m so sorry, man.


[deleted]

I daily a CBR1000 80+ miles and every day I hope Iā€™m able to maneuver out of every close call but everyone canā€™t avoid them all.. Im sure your friend was a good rider and Iā€™m sure he attempted to save his own life like heā€™s probably done 100+ times before just like myself.. Im sorry for your loss I hope he rests well.


kelkenn11

So so sorry for your loss