I was hit on the expressway a few days ago by a Caddilac that skidded across the grassy median from the other direction. I swerved slightly, but don't remember what happened. I woke up with the air bags deployed and the side window smashed in. I managed to climb out the window.

I have a few cuts from the glass, and maybe the airbag, but I have to say, I'm amazed that I'm not badly hurt. I was in shock for a couple days and might have had a concussion, but it's not too bad considering the speed of both of our cars.

So, my Mini is totalled, but it did it's job. Can't imagine replacing it, at all, but I'll almost definitely get another Mini, if the insurance comes through. My car was a 2004, but it's worth a lot more to me than the bluebook value.

 

Awful to hear but glad your Mini saved you and you are well. I've heard more stories of people sustaining minor injuries only with a Mini in an accident.
Hope you can get another.

 

That sucks, but at least you are still around. Photos would be good if possible. Sounds like a really hard hit.

 

Glad you are ok after a crash like that.
Sorry about your car.

 

AWESOME that you're okay! Just another reason for seat restraints and air bags. I can't believe people actually remove their SRS steering wheels for aftermarket "style" (not Mini's, necessarily). I'm pretty against shading any exterior lighting and over-tinting windows, etc.

I learned to drive in the '70s when cars weren't nearly as safe as they are today. This post is a glowing example of why there are safety regulations in cars - DOT, NHTSA... No matter how good/safe a driver we think we are, that's only half of the equation. I'm not an old geezer (yet) but I am still alive, and I intend to stay this way as long as possible.

Hope you get another R53, George.

(Now, you kids GET OFF MY LAWN! )

 

+1 for MINI safety. It's stories like these that make me proud to drive one, and know that in the event of an accident, I'll be well protected. I too would like to see picts if possible, just to see how well the car absorbed the impact. Swift recovery

 

I know what you feel like, And I'm glad your ok. We got hit head on in my 03 Turbo S Beetle about a month ago. Myself and my 6 and 9 yr. old all were fine. Thank God for seatbelts and airbags. I wanted a MCS when I bought the VW but couldn't afford it. The VW booked for way more than I gave for it so when all was said and done I bought my 02 MCS. And I love it. I'm glad to know they hold up good in a crash.

 

Not to be weird but, georgesimian are you from Pennsylvania? I saw a silver Cooper S first gen at a local collision center. Sad to see another MINI bite the dust. Sorry to hear your loss though. :/