Four years ago, I had a nasty bike accident. I went over the handlebars on a road with broken pavement and I now have a scar on my chin that I cover with a goatee.

What mitigated the damage of that crash was being properly outfitted; the gloves I was wearing saved severe hand abrasions when I planted before hitting my chin. I was wearing a helmet that day and I always do when cycling/biking.

Hundreds of miles later and a few minor mishaps, I had another accident last night.

One mile from home, I was climbing a hill, standing on my pedals when the chain locked/caught and down I went. This time, it was on my left side, but the first impact with the pavement was on the left side of my head. I can’t articulate how hard I hit my head–it took the brunt of my fall. I cracked my bike helmet, but it did what it was designed to do—protect my melon and my brain.

If you bike, wear a helmet.

A driver saw me go down and she pulled off the road and came back to check on me. Ironically, it was our neighbor. My bike was fine and I declined a ride and peddled home to assess the damage.

I’m badly bruised (left hip) and last night was tough sleeping. I have pain in my left breastbone and it’s hard to take a deep breath without pain (bruised ribs?). However, without my helmet, I don’t think I’d be here this morning typing this post.

I am going to see my doctor later this morning to get checked over, but I think I’m ok, just sore and will probably have to take a few days off from biking, swimming, and running. Then, it’s back to normal.

Wear a helmet and protect your head. Your brain will thank you.

My helmet is cracked, but not my head.

Inside view of cracked helmet.