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Posted by chief
- July 09, 2012, 15:54:55 PMI hate hearing this sort of thing. I hate emergency stops like this. Sometimes, no matter how prepared, how skilled, there simply is NOT enough room and time to stop.
I'm not implying the Deputy was distracted, but want to relay a situation where I WAS.We all try to stay alert, but it only takes a moment of distraction for us to end up in trouble. I ALWAYS leave lots of room between me and vehicles ahead. This simple rule has saved me several times.
But, last year I wasn't watching the traffic ahead on a two lane 55mph. Someone decided to stop quickly - why I don't know. By the time I noticed I was VERY close... emergency braking, managed to keep the bike upright through brake manipulation... and found a space to the right of the vehicle in front of me. I finally stopped at the rear door of the that car. I could see several feet of rubber I left on the highway trying to avoid the rear of that car.
I felt like an idiot. I'm usually stone cold in these situations which definitely helped me avoid laying the bike down. I had a couple of hours of riding to dissect the situation and identify all the stupid errors I made. This one was ENTIRELY my failure. And, as I pulled into the garage, I was very much aware of how close to being a stat I was that day.
Guys, stay aware, stay prepared, and be safe! Please.
Posted by 49Reo
- July 09, 2012, 14:15:15 PMVery sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. It is bad enough losing someone through 'natural' causes; a senseless death that could have been avoided is just that much harder. Seems like people in vehicles just can't stay out of a bikes safety zone. 
Regards,
Fred
Posted by 1SG CAV
- July 09, 2012, 00:30:26 AMToday Deputy Chapman with the Marion County Sheriff's Office, A co- worker of mine. He was riding his 2003 Honda on I-5 today. When the traffic in front of him stopped suddenly. He applied his brakes and ended up lying his bike down. A 2005 Durango ran over him and his bike. He died minutes later. This is the second co-worker that was killed in the same area. Both riding similar bikes and wearing proper colored clothing, so people could see them. So much for trying to be safe. I will work on getting his name added to those already on my bike.
Remember life is short and we can go any time. Enjoy what life that is offered to each and everyone of us.
Ride with pride
Honoring their Sacrifice.