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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Lotsokids on September 07, 2014, 02:36:10 AM

Title: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Lotsokids on September 07, 2014, 02:36:10 AM
In England... This is a disturbing video showing the actual collision. There's an echoing phrase in my head that says, "It could have been you!"
I've seen a lot of crash videos, but this one really made an impression. Careful out there guys. If we push it, we take a risk.

http://q13fox.com/2014/09/05/family-releases-gopro-video-of-fatal-motorcycle-crash-for-road-safety-campaign/ (http://q13fox.com/2014/09/05/family-releases-gopro-video-of-fatal-motorcycle-crash-for-road-safety-campaign/)
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: X-Ray on September 07, 2014, 03:48:42 AM
Yep, just shows how quickly it can happen,  :(
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Tuneforkfreak on September 07, 2014, 08:04:39 AM
 The video says it all ! This guy should have been on a race track not on a public street. Now the person in the car has to live with this F'd up tragedy. I know a guy that used to ride his rocket like this. He'd push the limits every single minute he was on two wheels, but one day it caught up with him. 70 MPH in a hilly twisty semi residential 30 MPH zone and  a person backed out of the driveway to end his lucky streak. He lived to tell but he didn't tell for a long long time. People that ride like this give the rest of us normal riders a bad name in my opinion.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Lotsokids on September 07, 2014, 10:39:11 AM
Quote from: Tuneforkfreak on September 07, 2014, 08:04:39 AM
People that ride like this give the rest of us normal riders a bad name in my opinion.

I admit I'm one of them. Sorry. I am an aggressive rider, but here in Europe there is a false sense of safety for me because drivers are exponentially better drivers here than in the U.S.
I take this video as a personal lesson to take a chill pill. Out in the country with no intersections or other cars, I still might push it a little. But then there are deer... :sorry:
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: JPaganel on September 07, 2014, 12:38:55 PM
Doing nearly 100 on a two-lane with intersections... No part of this sounds like a good idea.

Don't they have highways in UK?

BTW, here in MN driving over 100mph is an automatic six-month suspension of license.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Burns on September 07, 2014, 01:09:27 PM
Wow, that video really gave me the chills.  Cross-traffic situations are dangerous at any speed and while it is true that your options drop off quickly as the speedometer winds up, you can be just as dead at 60 as at 120 at those times when there is just no place to go.

So, let's not be too judgmental.  It could happen to any of us.

Be careful out there Brothers. 
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Steve_in_Florida on September 07, 2014, 02:15:01 PM
Yes, I have been thinking a lot about this video today, riding the `90. Very easy to find yourself in an uncontrolled situation, `specially with all the distractions that drivers (and riders) have. Those kinds of speeds are just a small twist away, and our skinny bikes are hard to see.

Thank you for posting, even though it's grim.

Steve
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Dan Filetti on September 07, 2014, 02:32:59 PM
If he'd have been moving slower, the accident would not have happened.  Simple as that.

Dan
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Burns on September 07, 2014, 02:44:09 PM
Quote from: Dan Filetti on September 07, 2014, 02:32:59 PM
If he'd have been moving slower, the accident would not have happened.  Simple as that.

Dan

It's really not that simple, Dan.  Postulating "if" this or that is really a pretty meaningless exercise.  If he had one more cup of coffee before he left - or one less - he wouldn't have been at the time and place that incident occurred;   if he was doing 60 and the car turned in front of him at the last instant he would have hit it.  No doubt that speed is a factor in both the occurance and consequences of these tragedies but, as in all things, one variable does not an equation make.

I know and have known a lot of motorcyclists and none who have not gone faster than prudent from time to time.

Judge not . . .
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Sabre093 on September 07, 2014, 05:03:43 PM
I can't count how many times after the fact saying WTF am I doing...there are times I think after doing something stupid I look back and think what if....we all been there...this video is to remind us how karma will snap her fingers at anytime and say show  over. ..Personally I can say one of my stupid acts has hurt someone and looking back...never again...take this video anyway you want...to me it's a reminder of how this can go south real fast...be safe out there.....this is just the way I see this tragic event.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: JPaganel on September 07, 2014, 05:13:59 PM
Quote from: Burns on September 07, 2014, 02:44:09 PM
It's really not that simple, Dan.  Postulating "if" this or that is really a pretty meaningless exercise.  If he had one more cup of coffee before he left - or one less - he wouldn't have been at the time and place that incident occurred;   if he was doing 60 and the car turned in front of him at the last instant he would have hit it.  No doubt that speed is a factor in both the occurance and consequences of these tragedies but, as in all things, one variable does not an equation make.

I know and have known a lot of motorcyclists and none who have not gone faster than prudent from time to time.

There is stuff we can control, and stuff we can't control. In this case, he did pick a pretty bad place to be going that fast.

Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Tuneforkfreak on September 07, 2014, 09:06:54 PM
Well if you pause the video right before the impact you'll notice a large white SLOW sign painted right on the roadway. Hard to read at 97 mph, though I don't think this guy was concerned with the meanings of signs anyhow. One things for sure, I'm gonna get me a Go Pro , those are durable cameras.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Burns on September 08, 2014, 12:34:11 PM


[/quote]There is stuff we can control, and stuff we can't control. In this case, he did pick a pretty bad place to be going that fast.


That's for sure.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: andyoutandabout on September 08, 2014, 11:56:50 PM
What a horrible video. I could only watch it the once, so the finer details I perhaps didn't notice. I did think that the guys speed was a bit up there for that type of road, but most of us give it a go at some point in a ride. Anyone can be unlucky and when the fates dictate that it's your turn, then all those defensive riding skills are still going to see you on your arse.
Let's be careful out there folks.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Flynt on September 09, 2014, 12:39:33 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on September 08, 2014, 11:56:50 PM
fates dictate that it's your turn...

True dat...

Frank
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Burns on September 09, 2014, 11:25:46 AM
Quote from: Flynt on September 09, 2014, 12:39:33 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on September 08, 2014, 11:56:50 PM
fates dictate that it's your turn...

True dat...

Frank

you never know when Fate is going to pick up the phone and take your call, but if you have her on Speed Dial .... well you get the picture.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Flynt on September 09, 2014, 11:03:26 PM
Quote from: Burns on September 09, 2014, 11:25:46 AM
well you get the picture.

I see several things I'd never do in that video for sure...  but it is really impossible to say that it won't happen to you.  Sometimes it is your turn...

Frank
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: movenon on September 10, 2014, 12:22:54 AM
Enough sadness and tragedy in that video to go around for all involved.  Hindsight is great.  If the video gives anyone pause to think about what and how fast something can happen then that's good.  I get the impression that is why his mom released that video. 
The best we can do is learn from it. 
George

Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: charleygofast on September 10, 2014, 06:30:55 AM
After seeing that video I changed my mind about riding to work today...I lost a good friend 30 years ago very much the same scenario. He wasnt wearing a helmet and he might have lived if he had. God it's just so final! The end is the end, I feel for his mother and family and miss those I've lost. Alot of emotion right now not a good day to ride! I"ve said this before but I feel alot safer when I'm riding off road.  I believe this guy took one too many chances and should have done some track days to get that rush..........Kookaloo...carefully...I guess I'm not one to preach, but for gods sake be carefull everyone your family and friends need you                                  Drivin the truck today.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Charley.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Lotsokids on September 10, 2014, 07:28:56 AM
As I mentioned, we've all seen plenty of crash videos, but this one struck a nerve with most of us. Many good comments. The "pause to think" comment by "movenon" could have saved someone's life here, but we'll never know.

As part of the initial cadre of Air Force Sport Bike Instructors, our lead instructor wanted to focus on proper places to do racing and stunts, and not focus on the death and despair. There is a balance. Enjoy riding, but be vigilant. It's a risk we take.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: ddlewis on September 10, 2014, 07:34:01 AM
wow..  that just scared the crap out of me.  Read the title and knew it was coming but still.  it was like something out of my nightmares.  All the guy could say was "whoa".

feel bad for the poor dude but man those were some real bad decisions on display there.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Steve_in_Florida on September 10, 2014, 08:28:13 AM
Quote from: charleygofast on September 10, 2014, 06:30:55 AM

After seeing that video I changed my mind about riding to work today...


I just watched it (again), and decided that I'm DEFINITELY taking the bike to work today. Took the VW Camper the last two days (SSSSLLLLOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWW), so today is BIKE DAY!

The disturbing trends that I'm seeing out on the road are distractions, confusion, and road rage.

Cell phones steal your attention. As soon as you're on a call, your mind is *NOT* on the road.

NAV systems bark directions, which drivers react to without first checking "reality". This is predictable in certain areas of town.

An increased level of road rage is also predictable along certain stretches of highway. Travelers and commuters are impatient and frustrated; Imagine having to "wait your turn" in a Me, me, me world!

So, no need to hide from the hazards. Know they're there and plan/react accordingly.

Today, I might even take a longer, less-traveled road, just to spice things up.

Steve
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Tuneforkfreak on September 10, 2014, 09:35:03 AM
I'm with ya Steve! I've seen plenty of airplane crash videos yet I still went and got in the cockpit. This was no different than that, I went right out and got on my bike, though I won't say I didn't give a second thought. I was trained to drive by the Smith system  and this vid has just refreshed my thinking.  When I learned to fly, my buddy who taught me took me inside and sat me down. He  placed a large envelope of crash clippings in front of me he had collected over the years and went over the why they happeneds with me. Ya it left a lasting impression in my mind and the do's and don'ts  definitely stick out when you enter the plane.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Burns on September 10, 2014, 02:07:12 PM
Danger is a spice that must be used judiciously, but without it the Feast of Life is rather bland.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: charleygofast on September 11, 2014, 06:44:53 AM
Ridin the FJ today, if my minds not right I dont ride . Rained yesterday anyway so I wouldnt have rode regardless. That poor woman having to watch that can you imagine!!! I've seen alot over the years and been involved in a few that left an impression, that vid. made me re think and focus a bit more. Yes Its dangerous out there Just try to avoid the obvious.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: FJ_Hooligan on September 11, 2014, 06:57:41 AM
I feel for the loss and I agree that sometimes fate can deal a cruel hand. 

BUT it's amazing how cooperative fate can be when you're NOT riding like a fool.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: JPaganel on September 11, 2014, 10:34:30 AM
I take the FJ to work almost every day it is not snowing. Even in the rain.

Someone else's poor choices aren't a reason to quit riding. They are a reason to think about how you are riding, though.

I'm no fan of speed limits, and I've had my share of tickets, but I keep it down on the streets. A few weeks ago I had a close call with a dump truck making a left turn. Plenty similar to this guy. And, while I was going faster than the posted 35 mph, I wasn't going 100, so when I passed a bus on the right and saw the truck turning, I succeeded in a panic stop, and I post here instead of decorating the truck's grille with myself.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: Bminder on September 11, 2014, 04:59:36 PM
Quote from: FJ_Hooligan on September 11, 2014, 06:57:41 AM
I feel for the loss and I agree that sometimes fate can deal a cruel hand. 
BUT it's amazing how cooperative fate can be when you're NOT riding like a fool.

Bingo, Hooligan.
I've read all the posts here, and say what you want about 'Judge not' and 'if it's your time' and all, but the facts are he was greatly exceeding the speed limit and what was reasonable and prudent for that road, he was doing a lot of dangerous things, and I think that the driver of the car would have a hard time judging how fast that bike was going because the rider was going so far over the speed limit.
The guy was riding recklessly, how can you deny that?
If he was drinking and riding and crashed and died, would you still say, 'Judge not' and 'if it's your time...'?
I'm sorry he died, my heart goes out to his mum and family, but he was pushing his luck and he lost.

Last year in June, I had to do the funeral of an 18 year old in our church who had a brand new Kawasaki ZX10R. He took a 90 degree corner in town at 80 mph, lost control and died on the scene.  It was awful.
He was a cocky 18 yr old kid who thought he was indestructible riding a 180 HP crotchrocket too fast.
To say, "It was his time" and "judge not" when the fact is he was driving recklessly is... being in denial.

Slow down.

Rant over.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: gumby302ho on September 11, 2014, 05:52:01 PM
  I try to pick my spots where I want to twist the wrist, its always a risk as anything can happen at any time, I live the motto of Dirty Harry, "A man's got to know his limitations". Wrong spot to be flying at break neck speed. I feel for all who loved this fellow rider but he made a poor choice that cost the ultimate price. I will admit I ride and drive very aggressive and this video reminds me yet again what can happen to anyone. Live by the sword die by the sword. I am glad the family released the footage.
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: mikedastonfj1100 on October 06, 2014, 11:29:12 PM
I just saw the vid.... My heart sank and my mind exploded at impact.... Wow... That really sucks... I give my condolences to the family and sorry for their loss of a wonderful person... Please everyone!!!! Ride safe!!! Always!!!! Even at the track please ride safe...
Title: Re: Family Releases GoPro Video of Fatal FJR Crash
Post by: JoBrCo on October 07, 2014, 04:22:58 PM
I've been guilty of the same type of carelessness.  Though I've done it out in the boons, there were private driveways, and timing is everything, if there had been a child around the curve playing in front of his drive, or one of this parents just pulling out to go to the store.  I was lucky, and so many of you have been.  In all actuality the only place where it can only be you and your kind, is at the track, unless of course you can say that you've never been speeding past any sort of intersection, street or driveway.

Death is final my friends, so let's be smart about it!


FJ Forever!   :drinks:


JoBrCo