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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: JohNLA on February 19, 2004, 10:59:15 PM

Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 19, 2004, 10:59:15 PM
Last Thursday, I was heading from Santi Monica to LA when I nailed a car and broke two bones in my left leg.

At 4:30 pm, I was heading East on Pico Blvd aproachoning Centinela Ave. I don't know why I didn't see the intersection approaching maybe because of the heavy shadows from the sunset or the fact that I was passing under an overpass. Regardless, I didn't see the intersection and didn't start brakining until 12 to 15 feet from it. I tried to emergency brake but I didn't stop in time and plowed into the side of some poor guys civic. I flipped over the car and this is probably when I broke my leg bones. Before trying to stand I saw my leg was deformed just above my ankle.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Cal Price on February 19, 2004, 11:02:47 PM
Ouch! bad news, bad luck man, hope you recover quickly, the world needs all the bikers it can get.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 19, 2004, 11:07:40 PM
The insurance adjuster came out and looked at the bike already.
It does not look to bad. At least from just eyeballing things. The forks, look good. :o

The drag bars and bar ends are bent
Two  small dents in the tank
The frame is bent, where the front left peg attaches to the frame.
Two cracks in the rear left tail plastic.

I have a feeling Progressive is going to total it. Will have to wait and see. :dunno:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: mrslush50 on February 19, 2004, 11:27:37 PM
sorry to hear that.  get well soon.

(If the frame is bent it's probably a total)
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Adam R on February 19, 2004, 11:39:43 PM
Oh Jon, sorry to hear this.  I'm glad that you're relatively okay though. Best of luck with your recovery and getting the bike back on the road.


Adam
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: TheGoodGuy on February 19, 2004, 11:48:48 PM
shaZam! .....

I am glad your okay.. i will take a few broken bones over say having something worse..

I hope you got insurance from work or something.. i hope they are covering your accident.

I do know that condition your talking about. I had it once here in sacramento, didnt see the intersection until the last moment, at that point I had to jam on the brakes..

ended up a few feet into the intersection.. thankfully i wasnt going too fast.

Get well soon John...
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: miket on February 19, 2004, 11:51:16 PM
Sorry to hear that, John, especially since you use your bike for work. Get well soon.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pantablo on February 19, 2004, 11:53:04 PM
DUDE!  I read the title, saw it was your thread and my heart sank...glad it wasn't worse! Sucks that you can't ride though-there goes your livelyhood. Does Workmans comp or disability insurance help or are you totally screwed from not working?

If they do total the bike, take their cash-out and buy it back with salvage title, making a little cash in the process. My frame bent in the same place from my DROPPING the bike. Just slip a pipe over the footrest and bend it back. Mine's been fine forever.

Or you could just buy another bike...Mine will be available soon... :thumb:

Either way, heal quickly. Glad you made it out alright. how did the 'safety gear' you wear come through the crash?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: vegbiker on February 20, 2004, 12:14:40 AM
Wow! Glad you're relatively ok - it could have been worse. Get better soon!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 20, 2004, 01:23:04 AM
Thanks for the kind words :)

I do have a kind of workers comp insurance, that will pay me 75% of what my paychecks averageed.

My biggest problem is I don't have regular medical insurance. I only had full coverage riding insurance.
After the accident, the ambulance took me to Santa Monica hospital but since I didn't have medical insurance they took x-rays and set it real quick and told me to go to County since I couldn't afford to have them work on me.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Kerry on February 20, 2004, 02:02:21 AM
Sorry to hear about the crash, John.   :o  That's the kind of "life-changing event" you could probably have done without right about now.   :x

I guess this explains your 8-day absence; it's good to have you back.  I know it's not a slap-you-on-the-back-and-now-you're-OK kind of thing.  Been there, done that.  (But I'll take the cow over the car, thanks.)

BTW, if you were contemplating a change to your signature line, now would be a good time...  :roll:

Hang in there, pal!  We're rooting for ya.

PS - Not to be too morbid about it, but do you have pictures of "JohNLA in a leg cast"?  We could all sign it for you ... virtually, of course!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: jangofett on February 20, 2004, 05:08:51 AM
John,

I am glad you are still with us. Broken bones are no fun. I got a compound fracture in my leg while playing baseball years ago. It will heal after time. Don't worry too hard about the bike, they make them everyday. You they only made once. Take care and I wish you the best in your recovery.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: cozy on February 20, 2004, 05:49:51 AM
Real sorry to hear it John, hope your recovery is swift. Hang in there.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JLKasper on February 20, 2004, 05:50:16 AM
John,

I'm glad you weren't seriously injured (all things considered).  Thinking of your accident will give me pause when riding on those bright, sunny late afternoons...

Isn't this country's health care system great?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JamesG on February 20, 2004, 05:57:43 AM
What did ya go and do a think like that for?  :P

Sorry man, but don't worry.  I'm sure you've gone thru the "I hate life" post crash depression already. But just remember:
The bones will heal, the bills will get paid. And you can get another bike.

:thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: vtlion on February 20, 2004, 06:09:17 AM
heal quickly   :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Laura on February 20, 2004, 07:17:14 AM
Ouch. That's scary. Get well soon.

Laura
Title: Yes...
Post by: The Buddha on February 20, 2004, 07:30:48 AM
Yes Heal up well... In your teens and 20's you heal up fast but scar, in your 30's you heal slow but heal right and do not scar... Dont know after 30's... Yes there is always Pablo's bike if yours goes to heaven... Or buy a real bike A 2000- cheap. I always see some good ones in recycler/craigslist.
Cool.
Srinath.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Jundie on February 20, 2004, 07:32:49 AM
whoa, i don't like reading such posts  :(  but I'm glad you're relatively OK
Get well soon (before the summer  :mrgreen: )
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Turkina on February 20, 2004, 07:49:22 AM
Ouch :(  Heal fast and get back on the road!

In the meantime, you could always sit at the computer and try to take the post whore title away from Pablo  :mrgreen:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: scratch on February 20, 2004, 09:25:56 AM
Oh, man! I hope you feel better and everything will work out! Well wishes to you.

Quote from: JohNLATwo  small dents in the tank

Where? (sorry, just had to ask...)(does it hurt to laugh?)
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: bbanjo on February 20, 2004, 09:45:45 AM
Da kine naughty nurse says "Get well soon!"

(http://www.rear-entry.net/43/naughty-nurse/bildeh/nurse0102.jpg)
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pantablo on February 20, 2004, 09:50:02 AM
Hey John,
LA County/USC medical center isn't SO bad...my sister is an ER nurse there...may have seen you?!

Srinath-
:nana:

Turkina-
:nana:

bbanjo-
:thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: GRU on February 20, 2004, 09:54:21 AM
damn man...that sucks....it looks bad right not but could of been a lot worse
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Rich500 on February 20, 2004, 10:07:50 AM
A minor set back! Youll be back on the road before you even know it!
Maybe with the insurance $$$ you can get something with a little more go.
Keep in good spirits, its the best thing you can do.

I must comment on your hospital situation. Its a shame someone can be turned away because they cant afford coverage at one place. Thats ridiculous. You should not have to go to a differant hospital. Its a real shame how poor the American health system is so poor. Come up too CAnada, and youd be fixed up for free.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: BadBatzMaru on February 20, 2004, 10:14:14 AM
that sucks. I remember Pico/centinela well from my UCLA days... glad to hear that you are doin OK though, and just want to wish you a speedy recovery and good luck w/ getting a bike to ride again soon!!!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: john on February 20, 2004, 10:16:01 AM
Jesus!   :o   That is like everybody's greatest fear.

You don't need to tell us how painful it was.  My leg hurt just reading your post.  Get well soon!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pizzleboy on February 20, 2004, 10:26:22 AM
Mend fast.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JamesG on February 20, 2004, 10:26:55 AM
Quote from: Rich500
I must comment on your hospital situation. Its a shame someone can be turned away because they cant afford coverage at one place. Thats ridiculous. You should not have to go to a differant hospital. Its a real shame how poor the American health system is so poor. Come up too CAnada, and youd be fixed up for free.

eventually... after his foot has fallen off from gangreen.  :P

You did notice that the fancy private hospital DID triage, xray, and set his leg first right?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Rich500 on February 20, 2004, 10:38:01 AM
/\---I did notice. Its still sick that you have to pay for medical treatment. Or that you can be denied treatment based on how much money you have. Thats all Im saying.
The real reason this thread is here, is to with John the best!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: snapper on February 20, 2004, 10:47:37 AM
John rest up - sleep is a great thing for healing!  I napped for several days after breaking my scapula and man what a difference those few days made!   ;)  Take care!  Sorry to hear about your connection to that civic!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Maniac on February 20, 2004, 11:02:44 AM
Bah, John!

We all know you were looking for an excuse to skip work, lay around on the couch, and suck down beers while watching TV!  :lol:

Sorry to hear about the accident, though. Glad to hear you made it out relativly ok! Take it easy, get some rest, and before you know it you'll be up and about in no time!  :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Juanfer on February 20, 2004, 11:53:01 AM
:( Sorry to hear that....Get well soon. :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: The Antibody on February 20, 2004, 12:28:33 PM
Geez. I am really sorry to hear this bud. It makes me feel like shaZam!. Feel better and get back out there as soon as possible ok?

 -Anti
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: octane on February 20, 2004, 12:30:05 PM
Youch! Get better quick. I hope you have a nice lady to play nurse!! That always makes me feel better!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 20, 2004, 12:31:22 PM
Quote from: JamesG

You did notice that the fancy private hospital DID triage, xray, and set his leg first right?

I also got my first bill from the Santa Monica Hospital.  It is from the Orthapedic Dr( the guy who pulled on my foot while they wrapped my leg in a cloth wrap). I also had to wait three hours in pain for the guy to get there. For that service I get to pay $1100 :x

Yes, I am soar and cranky :guns:

Pablo, I have nothing but praise for the people who helped me the following day at (USC) County. I found out later that it is supposed to be the busiest ER in the country. My one complaint would be about how long things took but considering the amount of people those kind folks deal with. I think they do great work.

Maniac, daytime TV sucks. Nothing but Peoples Court and Dr. Phil shows. Jerry Springer even sucks now.

Snapper, I have been trying but I have yet to sleep more than two hours of sleep in a row. I think it because of the Vicaden I am taking for pain.

Bbanjo, thanks for the pic. Much nicer than the typical Hallmark type stuff.

Scratch, the tank dents were caused by the bent bars and the bar ends, bending into the tank.

To everyone else, thanks again for the kind words. :cheers:

So how do I turn this whole mess into a silver freakink lining :?
I think I am going to use the time off to build my digital portfolio and see if I can't get back into 3d design work. Also, the courier life really isn't a career for someone with a college degree even if I did enjoy it.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: alerbaugh on February 20, 2004, 12:31:49 PM
You may ned to have your eyes checked or know the roads better.  either way sorry about the break.  6 weeks of long waiting followed by alot of rehab.  Just stick with it and hope you get a hot nurse!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 20, 2004, 12:35:59 PM
I wish I could blame my vision but it was just a matter of not paying 100 % attension.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: jake42 on February 20, 2004, 12:49:12 PM
dude

bones heal and chicks dig scars... the stuntman from the simpsons.


jake
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: AndyMC on February 20, 2004, 12:51:23 PM
that sucks man    get well quick :(
Title: Any stuff for sale???
Post by: Hi-T on February 20, 2004, 01:03:18 PM
Sorry to hear about the accident....

but it sounds like the bike is totalled and if you have any aftermarket parts for sale let me know and I can get you some fast cash.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pantablo on February 20, 2004, 01:47:19 PM
Quote from: Rich500... you have to pay for medical treatment. Or that you can be denied treatment based on how much money you have. Thats all Im sayin!

Risking a thread hijack I just want to say that, A) doctors and nurses deserve to be paid, and B) state sponsored or private medical care...either way you pay: Taxes or premuims.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Gisser on February 20, 2004, 02:20:59 PM
As I mentioned in a recent thread, accidental injury insurance is relatively inexpensive.  JohNLA made the decision, either consciously or passively, to accept some risk to save a few dollars and this time it didn't pay.  Freedom and responsibility.....

JohNLA should post an address where the group can send donations.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: bigdaub on February 20, 2004, 03:03:40 PM
get well soon...
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 20, 2004, 03:54:56 PM
Whoaa, thanks Gisser but I have never taken charity unemployment or any other type of hand out. I am way to proud for that but it was a nice offer.

At first, I didn't even want to post what happened. :oops:  Then I started thinking about how I always post my motorcycle triumphs as well as my mistakes. I figure the reason I post so much is if you can help others not learn the hard way. Then they may do the same for me. Other than pay attention and have medical insurance, I know there is not a lot of valuable knowlege to be gained from my latest dumb move but I thought it should be shared.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Shadowhawk on February 20, 2004, 05:27:05 PM
Man, That sucks!!!  I broke my kneecap wiping out on a bicycle when I was 13.  It healed quick, but I know when the weather is changing.  Get well soon and get back out there.

Don
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Turkina on February 20, 2004, 06:00:06 PM
Quote from: GisserAs I mentioned in a recent thread, accidental injury insurance is relatively inexpensive.  JohNLA made the decision, either consciously or passively, to accept some risk to save a few dollars and this time it didn't pay.  Freedom and responsibility.....

JohNLA should post an address where the group can send donations.

I couldn't get injury insurance for my motorcycle (State Farm, NY)  So when I had my tumble, luckily my health insurance picked up most of the bill.  I do believe this coming year I'll switch companies and get a better deal.  I'll keep my car insurance there, they've been great at taking care of family members who have gone off and tweaked their cars.

I got told something like: "Motorcycling is a dangerous activity that is too risky to offer injury insurance"  blah :P
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: gobstopper on February 20, 2004, 07:56:20 PM
Get better soon!  

You're getting good vibes from everyone here, so you'll be ok. :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: BanannaMan on February 20, 2004, 11:07:04 PM
Sorry to hear about the crash...

Hope you are better and back on two wheels again soon.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Traveler on February 21, 2004, 12:15:20 AM
John,
FIb/Tibs are no fun. When the pain stops, the itching starts, get a knitting needle to scratch inside the cast........gently.
Learn from me, don't  do it twice;  catching frisbees is a game for fools anyway. :oops:  
Heal fast and ride.


Sorry about the tag line, no pun intended.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Kerry on February 21, 2004, 02:44:09 AM
Quote from: JohNLA[...]I am soar and cranky :guns:
[...]daytime TV sucks
[...]I have yet to sleep more than two hours of sleep in a row.
[...]So how do I turn this whole mess into a silver freakink lining :?
[...]

Here's one idea...

PLUS

EQUALS



???

:mrgreen:   :mrgreen:   :mrgreen:

EDIT: Changed links from sisna.com to bbburma.net
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: 500rider on February 21, 2004, 06:43:09 AM
Wow ... I was hoping that it wasn't somebody from the forum.  

I hope you heal well and good and get back to riding.  

Rob :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Brutuz on February 21, 2004, 07:35:40 AM
Hope it doesn't hurt much JohNLA, get wel soon!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: ScottWV on February 21, 2004, 10:12:03 AM
You didn't mention any road rash, musta been wearing your gear  :)

Good luck with healing (sorry it's late I haven't been on the forum much lately...)
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on February 21, 2004, 01:10:38 PM
Quote from: ScottWVYou didn't mention any road rash, musta been wearing your gear  :)

Good luck with healing (sorry it's late I haven't been on the forum much lately...)

I had zero road rash. I was wearing my normal gear.

THIS IS THE GEAR I ALWAYS WEAR
Hiking boots (will be upgraded to proper MC boots before I ride again)
Jeans
Leather Jacket
Kevlar gloves
HJC CL-14

It is weird, other than the broken leg. I had no other bruises or scratches. :?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: spotswood_suzuki on February 21, 2004, 07:38:54 PM
Good to hear your gear worked.....sorry  you had to test it :( .  Feel better soon John.

Wayne
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: MstrsLilBrat on February 21, 2004, 08:59:04 PM
Broken bones.... Ouch!
I am still seeing my Dr. for my Sept. accident.

Hope you get well soon!!  :kiss:

*brat*
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Gisser on February 21, 2004, 09:49:58 PM
QuoteWhoaa, thanks Gisser but I have never taken charity unemployment or any other type of hand out. I am way to proud for that but it was a nice offer.

Unemployment isn't charity, it's supposedly an insurance disbursement, though perhaps more like an entitlement in actual practice.  Entitlements don't require swallowing any pride.  On the contrary, they encourage angry :x  demands for more(!) more(!) more(!). :P    

Eleven hundred bucks doesn't sound too bad for setting a broken bone, though, it remains to be seen what the final tally is.  If I break my tibia I just have them break the other then opt to undergo bone lengthening procedure until I can flat foot a DRZ400. :P
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Gisser on February 21, 2004, 10:16:22 PM
QuoteI couldn't get injury insurance for my motorcycle (State Farm, NY) So when I had my tumble, luckily my health insurance picked up most of the bill.

I used to get accident coverage from Combined Insurance Co.  It was a great deal way back when and it's worth checking into for any motorcyclist without health insurance.  

Back then I was young and male with nothing to lose and I calculate during that period I saved $20,000 in premiums I didn't pay.  I chose to invest that money in other areas of my life and am thankful for having the freedom to choose.  Walk a mile in my shoes and it makes sense.  I realize others may find themselves in a different situation.

For the record, I now have health insurance through Regence which includes a very generous no deductible accident coverage.  Getting sick is much more costly. :(
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pantablo on February 22, 2004, 12:48:03 AM
John,
same gear as when you low sided on our Piuma run that time way back? If so, that's 2x for those gloves. JR Speedmaster if I remember correctly-how are they holding up?

silver lining...new HELMET!!?? :dunno:

I'd recommend a newer jacket with more protection built in (perfect excuse to spend a little cash on gear!)...you dont want to damage the artwork or I love YOU's gift any more than necessary... :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pattonme on February 22, 2004, 04:42:02 PM
geez folks, ever hear about temporary medical insurance or even catestrophic medical insurance? You can do better than $92/mo but that's what I pay thru NASE.org so I have full medical in the event of a mishap. Obviously doesn't let you go to the doc to complain about colds, cancer or anything like that.

Get well soon.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: aslam on February 22, 2004, 10:03:59 PM
Get well, best wishes... you've helped me considerably

Thanks for the advice in the other threads.  I had the same problem you did about a month ago and was able to take care of it through the information in your posts.

ASLAM.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: juggernaught on February 24, 2004, 11:29:56 AM
I just saw this post and i'm so sorry dude.....but i'm glad that you will be back in action soon enough.  You may recall that last May i was t-boned by an unlicensed pinhead who ran a stop sign.  I broke a few bones on my right foot and by boots actually have the imprint of that Lexus' grill as a remembrance.  Anyhow...i missed 6 weeks of work but in the end...i walk with a bit of a limp...but the limp disappears magically when i ride.

Heal quick brudda...!!!   :thumb:  :cheers:  :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: C.J. on February 24, 2004, 08:11:43 PM
Sorry John,

Haven't been here in a while to see what';s going on.  Looks like I missed a lot.  I hope your geting better and your bike is gettin fixed.  It's good to see that your ok man :thumb:

Get well and get on that horse again (when she gets well too) :cheers:

C.J.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: yamahonkawazuki on February 25, 2004, 02:45:33 AM
:cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :cheers:  :thumb:  :thumb:  :thumb:  :thumb:  :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Traveler on February 25, 2004, 10:52:48 PM
Kinda O/T
The cost of Health Insurance in this 'safety net ' society currently consumes 43% of the Provincial budget and it's been calculated that if it continues to increase at the current rate, it will consume 100% of the budget by 2021!
We don't even have the choice to opt out and go private. Technically it is breaking the law to go to the States to have medical treatment. Only two countries do that to their citizens...Canada and North Korea.
Moral:
Damned if I know :dunno:
But no doubt someone will enlighten me :P
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: aslam on February 26, 2004, 05:04:18 PM
QuoteWe don't even have the choice to opt out and go private. Technically it is breaking the law to go to the States to have medical treatment. Only two countries do that to their citizens...Canada and North Korea.

Wow, I had no idea.  So what is the penalty supposed to be if you get medical treatment in the states?  I guess it's probably not enforced very strictly...

ASLAM
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Gisser on February 26, 2004, 09:49:30 PM
QuoteMoral:
Damned if I know :dunno:
But no doubt someone will enlighten me :P

The moral is that long winters foster an abundance of gloom & doom.  As does Universal Health-care.:guns:   We don't know. :oops:

Down yon, the diabolical  malpractice lottery is strangling health-care...public...private...name it.  Probably, by design.  For the children.  And, lawyers.  WAH, the doctor gave me an ugly scar on the bottom of my foot...YAY, I'm a multi-millionaire!  :nana:

Health-care is a growth industry and med clinics be popping up all over to tap into demand.  Competition is all good:  Here's $200, Doc, now fix what's ailing me before I go blow it at Walmart.  :P  Oops, wrong competition.  Walmart doesn't saw bones.  Not yet. 8)
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Traveler on February 26, 2004, 10:55:31 PM
Aslam, the penalty is extended torture by taxation.
Or perhaps a sharp smack on one's P.P. although I hear some folks like that. :o
Still we do live in a place where the largest industry is marijuana grow-ops and we can get Radio Paradise on the net, so there is still hope.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: TR on March 01, 2004, 01:35:59 AM
John, I just read about your accident, wish your your bones fix well and soon, and bills remain short...

I ride on jeans too, but they aren't very safe at all...
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Pkaaso on March 01, 2004, 10:07:28 PM
John,

Sorry to read about this.  I've been away from the board for a while.  I read from time to time and when I saw your post, my heart dropped.  I had to post something.  I'm glad your as good as you are.  I've come close a few times myself.  Lucky for me they were misses.

Hey, If you need anything let me know.  If I can help you rebuild let me know.  We can trailer the bike down to my shop or what ever you need.

I didn't read all of the thread this may have been answered, Are you going to rebuild?

Paul
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 02, 2004, 12:46:44 AM
Turns out I will be covered for all but $250 of my medical bills.  :cheers:  :mrgreen:  :mrgreen:
I didn't realise I had medical through my job. I thought it just covered disability income but I guess it does both.

Had I known that I would not have have gone to county hospital. Where I had to share a room with five other guys.
About my roomates(Warning ! it gets gross :o )
The homeless guy was amusing, in a glad to have time pass sort of way but mostly he was annoying by talking to himself and screaming at nurses and singing badly. He had been shot twice in the leg and had to have a skin graft it was so bad. I saw his wound today, I could still see the muscles all down the the side of his leg.
The guy next to me was a Mexican/American Gardner, of about my age. He had made a mistake with a lawn mower and lost four toes. He was a real good guy and helped me get me my pain medication, if I was asleep.  :cheers: He also didn't mind to much being next to the homeless guy. Turned out, he had a brother who had gone crazy after losing his wife.
One guy had been there for fourteen days before he got his surgery. Although, he wasn't that bad off. He only had loose bone fragments in his elbow.
The other two were not as interesting. One had a broken arm and an older guy who I will just say was sick because I am not sure what was wrong.

What they did to me
I went in last monday to have my leg checked. After waiting in line for an hour I finally got new x-rays taken. The doctor said the bones were not going to heal perfect unless they were pinned with surgery. If I didn't have the surgery, he said I would have arthritus. I had a similar operation on my forearm when I was twenty so I thoought no big deal because it heeled well and I have no pain at all in that arm today.  The thing that is different about doing it to the leg is that they had to insert a large pin through my heal bone (with only a local anestetic). To that they attached it to a pully and twenty pound weight for three days to re expand the leg mucles before the surgery. Let me tell you, having to use a bed pan in that get up, was not fun. Surgery went well and looks to be setting everything perfectly. I have a velcro splint that I can take off twice a day to my ankle therapy. I think it is going to heal well. :)  I have had only one vicadon today and even though it is painfull right now, I have use of all my muscles in my foot.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 02, 2004, 12:56:14 AM
Quote from: Gisser

Eleven hundred bucks doesn't sound too bad for setting a broken bone, though, it remains to be seen what the final tally is.  If I break my tibia I just have them break the other then opt to undergo bone lengthening procedure until I can flat foot a DRZ400. :P

He didn't really set it. he just put it in a splint and wrapped it with gauze and an ace bandage and told me to go to county. He maybe spent twenty minutes with me.
At that kind of hourly rate I am seriously considering giving up art and going into the medical field.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Kerry on March 02, 2004, 12:57:53 AM
That's great news!  I'm glad that the prognosis is so good.

Not to nag or anything, but 9 1/2 days is a long time to go between posts.  :mrgreen:  Just curious - did the ol' GStwin.com board get re-weighed along with the rest of your priorities (after the big event) and end up at the bottom?  It's OK if it did.  I mean, you don't even have a serviceable GS right now (do you?), and I'm sure you've got lots of other, more important concerns.

We'll be patient (no pun intended).  We know you can't stay away... :kiss:

Best wishes for your recovery, and a high-five on your medical insurance.   :thumb:  SCORE!  :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 02, 2004, 01:08:20 AM
Quote from: pantabloJohn,
same gear as when you low sided on our Piuma run that time way back? If so, that's 2x for those gloves. JR Speedmaster if I remember correctly-how are they holding up?

silver lining...new HELMET!!?? :dunno:

I'd recommend a newer jacket with more protection built in (perfect excuse to spend a little cash on gear!)...you dont want to damage the artwork or I love YOU's gift any more than necessary... :thumb:

Yea, I replaced those Joe Rocket gloves a couple months back because they fell apart.
I have had several accidents in that leather jacet and it has yet to loose a single stitch. I think the leather must be an inch thick. It may look all dumb and Harley like but it works great and I wouldn't trade it for a brand new Vanson jacket.
The helmet may be replaced. I Have yet to inspect it but I may just er to the side of caution regardless of the fact that I don't remember hitting my head.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 02, 2004, 01:12:41 AM
Quote from: KerryThat's great news!  I'm glad that the prognosis is so good.

Not to nag or anything, but 9 1/2 days is a long time to go between posts.  :mrgreen:  Just curious - did the ol' GStwin.com board get re-weighed along with the rest of your priorities (after the big event) and end up at the bottom?  It's OK if it did.  I mean, you don't even have a serviceable GS right now (do you?), and I'm sure you've got lots of other, more important concerns.

We'll be patient (no pun intended).  We know you can't stay away... :kiss:

Best wishes for your recovery, and a high-five on your medical insurance.   :thumb:  SCORE!  :thumb:

I was in the hospital for eight days without a computer. Talk about withdrawl pains :o

I will talk to Progressive tommorow to figure out what they want to do with the bike. If it gets totaled I will probably try to buy it back.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Afterburner on March 02, 2004, 01:41:03 AM
Sorry to hear about your misfortune, John.  I had a compound fracture of the tib/fib in a MC accident many years ago, and I guess they didn't know about stretching the leg muscles and putting pins in. They just set the bones side-by-side, so now I'm bowlegged and my left leg is 1" short.  (I wear a heelpad to compensate.)  Be glad they can make you "good as new" again.  You were really smart to take the surgery, even though it doesn't sound like much fun.  I'm glad your injuries weren't worse.  

In the meantime, is it possible to rig something up to shift a MC with your  hand instead of your foot, while you heal?  Or maybe look into that Burgman scooter -- pretty cool, 650 engine, has loads of storage, and you can let it auto shift or you can manual shift with up/down buttons.  Don't laugh.  I want one myself (also, not instead).
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: pantablo on March 06, 2004, 12:25:05 AM
Glad to hear things are going well. You'l be back at it in no time...probably a good thing in that this has given you (or will give you) time to think about your portfolio and graphics/CGI career; you can't messenger forever.

let me know what happens with your bike...mine may be available for purchase by the time your leg heals...
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: yamahonkawazuki on March 07, 2004, 02:18:17 AM
yeah burgman's are pretty interesting. a scooter with NADZ :roll:  :thumb:
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Rema1000 on March 07, 2004, 07:39:21 AM
I think if you're going to stay on streets (no highway), then a small scoot that can reach 45 or 50mph could be even faster for a courier.  Especially since people seem to allow the little scooters to park just about anywhere (no waiting for a parking space, just park next to the revolving door).  

I love that Aprilia DiTech 50cc fuel-injected 2-stroke; wish they'd make a 125cc highway-capable version.  Barring that, the Aprilia Atlantic looks good to me.  I think a scoot for the city and a Vstrom for the road would be perfect!

Anyways, glad to hear you had insurance, and that things are working-out.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 07, 2004, 11:42:07 PM
Thanks for all the nice well wishes.
++++++The Burgman is a cool ride but I am keeping the Gs for now.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: TheGoodGuy on March 08, 2004, 01:15:43 AM
glad you had insurance john..

well in a few weeks you will be back in shape. I know county can be a Buddha Loves You, but at that moment you thought you were without insurance.

I had gone to county once with a friend.. oh my.. what a mess.. never again.. i will take providence st. joseph in burbank or even the kaiser one in hollywood over county.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 08, 2004, 03:59:42 PM
I have grown kind of fond of county but then again I am on medication. :?  You get that kind of tough love to make you strong again. The Doctors are the best and the nurses are top notch as well. It is not the newest looking place and I always see someone in handcuffs. Not to mention the excitement of meeting all the gang bangers and getting them to show you there gun shot wounds.
I went in this morning for x-rays and the doc said the bones are healing good :cheers:  but it may be another week or more before they remove all the stitches and staples.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 09, 2004, 08:18:13 AM
It looks like I will be losing my GS. Progressive said I will only be getting $400 back after they sell my bike back.
They calculated this way:
+ $2900 Total value (I was hoping they would pay what I paid, retail but I guess it does not work like that.)
- $1000 deductable
- $1500 still owed on loan

I was hoping to buy it back but I have no idea what they will ask and since all my assumptions have been way off so far I am afraid to ask.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: aslam on March 09, 2004, 08:52:41 AM
Try to look at the bright side.  You're still coming out of it with positive equity on the deal.  You can pay off your loan and walk away.

As far as the salvage goes, my random guess would be between $700-$1200 to buy it back?  Just guessing...

ASLAM.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Kerry on March 09, 2004, 11:37:18 AM
Quote from: JohNLAI was hoping to buy it back but I have no idea what they will ask and since all my assumptions have been way off so far I am afraid to ask.
I hear ya.  I hit that cow on my '99 in late 2000.  The verbal guesstimate on the "buy it back" salvage price was around $400, but it ended up being $900.

The dollar figures you mentioned are all BEFORE repairs, right?  I guess that $1500 balance on the loan is what makes your situation different than mine.  (I paid $2750 for the bike in Mar 2000, so I was able to get into it without a loan.)

Well, it's not like it's your first bike.  You have had others, and I imagine the string of two-wheelers has only just begun!
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: JohNLA on March 09, 2004, 11:55:57 AM
At least I don't have to pay insurance and registration since I can't ride anyway. That should help in saving up for my next ride.
Now, I have to get outside and pull all my aftermarket stuff off.
Title: 15%...
Post by: The Buddha on March 17, 2004, 08:11:46 AM
Its 15% of retail... that $400 should get you the bike back. Salvage title but now you own it free and clear. And the $$$ you raise form selling the doodads will help you fix it.
Cool.
Srinath.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: Delta88 on March 17, 2004, 10:00:35 AM
I have been away for awhile and am just hearing of your accident. Sorry to hear. Allow me to offer my belated well wishes. As to the bike's salvage value, last October I was able to buy my '94 Concours back from Farmers for $600 after they totaled it and figured retail value at $3650. Also, don't forget, they owe you for any tax, license, etc. that were still valid plus Sales tax on whatever they end up giving you for your bike. Here in the People's Republic of Washington, that came to another $400 + or - in my pocket. You also don't have to accept the first offer. They have most of the leverage here, true, but it never hurts to negotiate a bit.
 I feel your pain on the broken leg. That wreck in Oct. left me with a broken wrist and 60 days off of my bike. After they removed the rods and I did a little PT, I was back on the road on a new-to-me '99 Triumph Thunderbird for exactly 11 days and - BAM! - rear-ended by a drunk driver. That was 3 days before Christmas and I still don't remember it. With a doozy of a concussion and some strained shoulder tendons, it was another 45 days, or so until I could ride again. Hang in there and we're praying for your speedy recovery.
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: octane on March 17, 2004, 10:03:03 AM
If you buy it back, what will you need to get it rolling again?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: sanityfree on March 17, 2004, 11:10:42 AM
hey, are they leaving that pin in your ankle or are they removing it later?
Title: Broken Tibia and Fibia
Post by: aslam on March 17, 2004, 11:14:13 AM
Goddamn Delta, bad luck bro.   :o

ASLAM.
Title: Are you...
Post by: The Buddha on March 17, 2004, 11:16:40 AM
Quote from: octaneIf you buy it back, what will you need to get it rolling again?

Are you thinking what I am thinking octane... Check your PM.
Cool.
Srinath.