If there are two things that Erin Parker needs in her life to get through the day, it’s her cup of coffee and her bike. Like many of her fellow San Franciscans, getting around on two wheels is a way of life for Erin and she wouldn’t want it any other way.

But much as every rose has its thorn, every biker deals with accidents. Here’s Erin’s story about a time she nearly saw it all come to an end, as told to our writer Tom Layman.

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I’m in the Castro District in San Francisco biking with my boyfriend Michael, and of course as avid cyclists we are putting together some pretty good speed on the roads. This was at night and the bike lane on this particular road gets a little close to the exposed rail lines on the ground.

I’m moving at a pretty quick pace, and without even noticing, my front tire gets wedged into the tiniest of crevices. My bike comes to a compete halt, which wouldn’t be a significant problem if my body had done so as well. Unfortunately, physics be damned, it did not, as we were moving quickly downhill.

Michael is riding a little bit behind me and he sees me go over the handlebars. He has just enough time to avoid me or we both would have been seriously injured in an accident you would generally see out of cars on the road.

Blood was gushing out of my knee. I was stunned and a little shell-shocked, wondering what the hell happened and how it happened so quickly. In fact, my mind is so preoccupied by what’s just occurred that I can’t even wrap my mind around what to do next.

I ride the streets of San Francisco on my bike because it’s the most pleasurable way for me to get around. As an everyday rider, I see drivers, pedestrians, and bikers bickering everyday.

But on this particular night, everyone was there to help me. Pedestrians walking by came to my aid. A couple pulled over to the side of the road and offered to give Michael and me a ride to our apartment. Potential tragedy soon gave way to opportunity, as Michael and I became friends with the couple who had rescued me.

It took me a few weeks to shake the limp I was walking with, but after a short time I was back on my bike and back in the gym strengthening my legs. Biking is something I’ll never give up on. It’s something I’ll always do, no matter what.

Next time I’ll just make sure to watch out for the rail.

Inspired by Erin’s story? Had a similar experience? We’d love to feature your story too! Send us an email at customerlove@fortifiedbike.com and we’ll arrange an interview for you as well.