My 1974 Pinto Wagon was totaled while I was driving it.
I was stopped on the freeway. I estimate that the car that hit me was going 35-45 mph on impact.
I was in the leftmost lane. I saw the car coming at me when it was still at least 1/8 mile behind me. I considered going into the dirt center divide. But I concluded that if I did that then the diver might have to choose who to hit.
I was stopped. I left about 10 feet between me and the car in front of me. I leaned back hard into the high back seats. I had my foot gently on the brake. I was in neutral. I gripped the steering wheel tightly. I kept my elbows out and flexed, not rigid.
The driver had an opportunity to go into the center divide, but decided to hit me instead.
The rear floor over the left rear wheel buckled a bit. The car was drivable, but the rear wheels were definitely not aligned properly.
I don't think the exploding gas tank problem was happening with the station wagons.
I walked away. The other driver was in her car upside down. She was taken to the hospital.
I did have a minor backlash problem that required no treatment.
I have memories of that day. Not fond memories, just memories.
It was November 1980. The Monday after the 13th. I can remember the day vividly because my daughter was born that 13th.
She almost had no daddy.
She almost had no baby brother.
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