How many near fatal accidents have you had?

Been lucky in cars no doubt, motorcycles too! I have done plenty of stupid **** though.

In 1978 I was in a CH-53 helicopter. When testing it after maintenance the Intermediate Gear Box failed. When that happens the tail rotor stops spinning and you IMMEDIATELY go into an uncontrollable LH yaw (spin) from a hover. We were about 100 feet above the ground at the time. Without control all yoh can do is lessen power and get to the ground as soon as possible no matter what attitude you're in when you get there.

The cabin of the plane is about 8.5 feet wide. I was standing in the cabin at this time so I could move around and clear the tail rotor. I had what's called a Gunner's Belt on. The belt allows you to move in about a 12 foot circle from where the other end is attached to a tie-down. It's whole purpose is to keep you from getting thrown too far in the event of an unforeseen accident.

Anyway, I heard a "bang" and knew it was not going to fun real soon. It wasn't!

We went around twice (~720 degrees) before we hit the ground. I was thrown to the opposite cabin wall and was standing there when we hit the ground. After hitting the ground the main landing gear dug in to the soil and we rotated about 90 degrees before we stopped. The back half of the airplane broke off and swung around toward the cockpit.

Now I hurt like hell because I slammed into some big fittings on the bulkhead and had broken 4 ribs. I was ecstatic, I knew I was still alive and was not on fire. (My biggest fear) I got up, ran toward the back of the plane because it was a big hole now and I ciuld see grass and trees. About 2 or 3 steps into the sprint of my life I reached the end of the gunner's belt. Because it was on just under my armpits I snapped back and wound up sitting on the floor realizing how good my ribs felt!!!!

I released the belt, said some very impolite words, and then helped the unhurt pilot/h2p out of the plane. We ran out, incredibly glad we were not dead, and waited for the cavalry. Within 30 seconds people were there, ambulances with 2 or 3 minutes. I was the only one with any injuries. Being purple from my arm pit to my waist was gravy all things considered!

Turns out the Intermediate Gear Box recently replaced had an "oil slinger" installed backwards so a dry bearing was he cause!

I've been very fortunate with cars/motorcycles. God's not done with me yet!