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General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 12:12:31 AM

Title: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 12:12:31 AM
(http://www.trekmovie.com/tosrem/BoT/kirk_mccoy.jpg)
Well the day started off bad with me going into work 5 hours earlier than I was scheduled. I always work 9 - 5 on Wednesday. Today they swapped me to the 2 - 10 shift. It went downhill from there.


I headed back to work at 1:30pm driving my "Old Goat", as I lovingly call my 2001 Dodge pickup. I was grooving to some tunes on the radio, minding my own business. I was driving well below the speed limit of 65 because I just crossed a set of train tracks and because the Goat sucks gas like there's no tomorrow when I see an 18 wheeler suddenly decide to turn in front of me. RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME!!!!


It's odd when you're in an accident. Everything goes into slow motion, but it feels like real time. I was travelling about 50mph because I just crossed those rough train tracks on Hwy 101 in Chico. The first thought that ran thru my head was "what does that idiot think he's doing?". Before I could process that thought a new more urgent one arose, "I'm going to hit him!". I slammed on the brakes and heard an eerie howl as my big meaty Kelly/Springfields grabbed the pavement hard desperately trying to bring me to a stop.


20 feet away.
I think I can stop in time. Those new brake pads I put on sure are doing a great job. Glad I decided to install them last month!


15 feet away.
Is there an option here? I can't go right because the truck is moving to my right. If I swerve that way I go off into the gravel and will hit the trailer with the driver's door. Let's not do that. I look left and all I see is the front of another Peterbilt. Let's not do that either.


10 feet away.
I'm slowing fast but I'm not going to stop in time. *&%#!!!! This is just what I needed. I look as the trailer continues to move to my right and the rear tandem of death moves toward me.
C'mon Baby, DIG!!!


5 feet away.
The tandem looks like it will line up in front of me. Good! I don't feel like being crushed underneath a loaded rocktruck today, but this is still going to hurt. I get a death grip on the steering wheel at 10 and 2 then brace for collision.


3, 2, 1..... WHAM!!!!!


Just as suddenly as time slowed down, it sprang back to real time. The truck keeps on going into the vacant lot. I look in my mirror and see traffic screeching to a halt behind me. The front end is cratered but my engine is still running so I try to pull off the road. No way, Jose. The truck will move forward, but I can't turn the steering wheel.


The Goat is Dead, Long Live The Goat!


Yep, my faithful companion has reached the end of the odometer. It now sits ungloriously in the storage lot at Chico Auto Parts awaiting an insurance adjuster. Luckily, I have my Suzuki Carry for emergency transportation. But it's definitely only for an emergency. I called the trucking company's insurance agent and left a message that I need a rental but it was after 5 before I had the opportunity. I'll call back in the morning.


See? This is what happens when you go messing with my schedule. If I had gone to work at my normal time I wouldn't have been on the road at 2pm and thus wouldn't have had a truck pull out in front of me, Jupiter wouldn't have aligned with Mars and I'd still have my Old Goat.


Oh, did I forget to mention the reason the truck pulled out in front of me so suddenly? A guy in a Key Energy pickup flipped him The Bird and he was going to chase him down and report him. So there you have it. I'm an innocent victim of road rage.

Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Hangtime on September 25, 2008, 12:17:53 AM
one would get the impression that if wasn't for bad luck, you wouldn't have any.

glad yer not squished!

nice AAR, BTW.  :aok
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: nirvana on September 25, 2008, 12:40:52 AM
Lawdy Lawd, glad you're okay!
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 12:50:48 AM
At least it wasn't a drunk titty dancer...
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 01:04:18 AM
Diablo, I thought the same thing.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Nilsen on September 25, 2008, 01:12:35 AM
Good to see you are ok.  :aok

May your truck RIP though. Time to get that Prius like Diablo did?
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Hangtime on September 25, 2008, 01:15:27 AM
his dick didn't fall off, Nils; his truck got crushed.

oh.. crap. that's prius.. not noodle.

nevermind.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 01:27:46 AM
Good to see you are ok.  :aok

May your truck RIP though. Time to get that Prius like Diablo did?

LAWLZ!  You're a funny man, Nils.

I love people that by those Prius type cars; the gas they save is the gas I get to burn later!
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 01:54:31 AM
It's either going to be a 4door F150 or Dodge Ram. Dodge has the better deal right now, but with new '09 models hitting the dealers I expect the '08 F150's to drop another 10-20% quick. I'd really prefer an F150.

If I was smart (never been accused of that) I buy a KIA or Hyundai SUV that gets really good milage. But I just can't bring myself to buy a new import.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 02:03:14 AM
Ok, then I have to ask...what if your F150 or Dodge Ram was built in Mexico or Canada?

And your Honda SUV was made in Ohio?

What then?
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 02:09:58 AM
You know I'm old school and already know the answer, Diablo.

The only new import I would consider buying is a Mercedes. I don't think the adjuster is going to be that generous.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 02:59:31 AM
Confirmed, just checking.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: SD67 on September 25, 2008, 03:02:26 AM
Buy the FORD
:rock
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 03:20:00 AM
Confirmed, just checking.
Like you had to ask.
Silly boy.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Curlew on September 25, 2008, 03:28:00 AM
Atleast it wasnt those danm drunk chico state hooligans  :t
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 03:38:42 AM
Chico State? All we got is ImatellinU on the square in downtown Chico, Texas.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Curlew on September 25, 2008, 03:46:07 AM
hahaha oh lol, i thought you were talking about chico california, we have interstate 101 here, figured you lived up there, its a huge party school,

sorry for your loss sir  :salute
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 03:53:34 AM
Lolol, no problem. The cross references are many. The major difference is population.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Nilsen on September 25, 2008, 04:27:02 AM
You know I'm old school and already know the answer, Diablo.

The only new import I would consider buying is a Mercedes. I don't think the adjuster is going to be that generous.

I got one of those. Reliable, comfy and buildt like a tank.  :aok
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 04:38:29 AM
Reliable, comfy and built like a tank.  :aok
I'd have to agree.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: SD67 on September 25, 2008, 04:39:18 AM
Ditto
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 06:18:41 AM
I got one of those. Reliable, comfy and buildt like a tank.  :aok

Well it should.  They have enough experience building tanks...
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Nilsen on September 25, 2008, 06:24:41 AM
Well it should.  They have enough experience building tanks...

True.

It doesnt have the flare and bling of your Prius but it doesnt look bad either  :)
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DiabloTX on September 25, 2008, 06:30:25 AM
Ok, that was funny the first time.

The second time, eh, not so much.

You're starting to sound like Storch at the other board.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Nilsen on September 25, 2008, 06:35:22 AM
 :D
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: john9001 on September 25, 2008, 07:30:02 AM
hmmm,a trucking company.
 rpm , i think you hurt your back or neck in that accident, have you talked to a lawyer?
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Hornet33 on September 25, 2008, 08:09:56 AM
Never give up on a Dodge truck, especialy a 2001 Ram. That's the last year they made the good looking body for the things. I know I drive one.

"The Goat, truck. A truck barely alive. Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology. We have the capability to build the world's first bionic truck. The Goat will be that truck. Better than he was before. Better, stronger, faster."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dpy6WAZbkV4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dpy6WAZbkV4)

It can be done!!!!! :aok
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: oboe on September 25, 2008, 08:31:30 AM
Glad you're OK, rpm.   btw I'd get a second opinion on your truck - iirc, McCoy's a doctor, not a mechanic.  ;)
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Charon on September 25, 2008, 09:28:36 AM
Ouch.

Glad you're OK.

Charon
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: indy007 on September 25, 2008, 09:46:49 AM
Don't forget the obligatory trip to the doctor. I didn't start having back problems until 3 months after my 4Runner was plowed into. :(
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: WilldCrd on September 25, 2008, 11:36:23 AM
Glade your ok! I hate rock haulers....for lots and lots of reasons....mainly their complete lack of driving skills. the other good reason is one your about to find out...the companys always try to get out of being at fault. wether its due to a rock flying out of their untarped trailer and cracking your windshield or the fact that the driver pulled out in front of you.
I used to help work accidents at a truck company. I can almost gauruntee you that they will say you were going to fast and are at fault because you hit the trailer at the tandems. They will also say you weren't paying close attention to the road ahead of you. since you hit so far back.
I hope i'm wrong for your sake. Just be prepared for it.
Good luck
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: CAP1 on September 25, 2008, 11:41:39 AM
Glade your ok! I hate rock haulers....for lots and lots of reasons....mainly their complete lack of driving skills. the other good reason is one your about to find out...the companys always try to get out of being at fault. wether its due to a rock flying out of their untarped trailer and cracking your windshield or the fact that the driver pulled out in front of you.
I used to help work accidents at a truck company. I can almost gauruntee you that they will say you were going to fast and are at fault because you hit the trailer at the tandems. They will also say you weren't paying close attention to the road ahead of you. since you hit so far back.
I hope i'm wrong for your sake. Just be prepared for it.
Good luck

i know a couple of truck drivers.......they're 2 of the best skilled drivers i know. in fact, they're also the only 2 that i've ever leant any of my cars to.
granted there are some non-skilled drivers out there, but i think the majority take pride in their jobs.

 also, glad you're not hurt rpm
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: CptTrips on September 25, 2008, 05:17:04 PM

Your politics suck.

But I'm glad you weren't hurt.


Regards,
Wab

Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Mr No Name on September 25, 2008, 05:41:52 PM
What Wabbit Said!!!!  Very very glad you were not hurt, Goats are replaceable! <S>

PS: What was the estimate on the laundry bill? 
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 07:53:13 PM
Still haven't heard from the adjuster. I rented a PTcruiser for the time being till I can find a truck. Man, those things suck harder than a Hoover.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Elfie on September 25, 2008, 08:13:57 PM
Still haven't heard from the adjuster. I rented a PTcruiser for the time being till I can find a truck. Man, those things suck harder than a Hoover.

The look cool factor on the P/T Cruiser is pretty high though imo.  :rock
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: SD67 on September 25, 2008, 10:09:12 PM
They really need 4 more cylinders and a differential in the back though to bring their cred up to acceptable levels.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: red26 on September 25, 2008, 10:36:09 PM
Glad to see that yer alright RPM Was it a Chaney truck?? Or Rumco?? My father drives for Rumco in the area. Well PM me sir if ya need anything. :salute
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rpm on September 25, 2008, 10:55:22 PM
It belonged to a small construction company.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: DREDIOCK on September 25, 2008, 10:58:06 PM
The look cool factor on the P/T Cruiser is pretty high though imo.  :rock

Coolest thing I've seen on a PT is someone who had a bunch of stickers on it that made it look like it was riddled with bullet holes.

never driven one But I've always liked the look of the PT.
also thought the look would be greatly improved with a set of old style S/S Cragar style rims, a set of 60's (old style, not that low profile crap thats popular now)
And chrome side pipes
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: rabbidrabbit on September 26, 2008, 06:00:45 AM
Still haven't heard from the adjuster. I rented a PTcruiser for the time being till I can find a truck. Man, those things suck harder than a Hoover.

Sounds like you've picked yourself up a date!  Good to hear you are OK.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: indy007 on September 26, 2008, 07:45:48 AM
Still haven't heard from the adjuster. I rented a PTcruiser for the time being till I can find a truck. Man, those things suck harder than a Hoover.

Ouch. It's a Dodge Neon with a different body.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Elfie on September 26, 2008, 08:01:50 AM
Quote
also thought the look would be greatly improved with a set of old style S/S Cragar style rims, a set of 60's (old style, not that low profile crap thats popular now)
And chrome side pipes

That would look cool.  :D
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: Vudak on September 26, 2008, 09:24:41 AM
Very glad to hear you're ok...  What did the police have to say to the other driver?

Good luck with everything...  It's almost a four letter word advising getting an attorney, so I won't do that.  I'll just say enjoy dealing with the various insurance adjusters yourself...  Hopefully you get one of the exceptions :)

Do go to the ER soon...  Like today...  And complain about whatever is sore.  NOT to sue them.  NOT to set up a claim.  ONLY to protect yourself.  You might be feeling fine today, but tomorrow you could sneeze and feel like hell.  Insurance companies will naturally blame that on the sneeze.

It is perfectly reasonable for you to go see a doctor just to make sure everything is ok.  You shouldn't feel bad about asking their insurance to pay for that.
Title: Re: It's Dead, Jim!
Post by: WilldCrd on September 26, 2008, 09:36:58 AM
i know a couple of truck drivers.......they're 2 of the best skilled drivers i know. in fact, they're also the only 2 that i've ever leant any of my cars to.
granted there are some non-skilled drivers out there, but i think the majority take pride in their jobs.

 also, glad you're not hurt rpm

I know LOTS of truck drivers that are skilled and professional. I used to own and drive a kenworth myself. What I was referring to was "rock haulers" specifically.  I know some are good drivers but there are ALOT that aren't that drive rock haulers