Oak Leaf, I was going down a hill not realizing that the sidewalk in front of me (multiuse) was dangerous. Likewise, I could have saved myself (most likely) if I would have been clipped in. I've done it before. However, I know now if there is any doubt just to walk the bike! It will take longer and be boring, but I won't fall off!

As for helmets, I used to never wear mine on the horse. I rode primarily Western at that time and showed stock horses. We are notorious for never wearing ours. And well, I went in this class called versatility. We were riding English first. I had on my helmet and my horse tripped and rolled on me. She kicked me in the head, kneed me in the chest, etc. This was a bombproof horse, but there was a ditch in the arena and she wasn't being careful enough at the canter. 15 minutes later, I would have been wearing a stetson in the Western portion of the event. I was okay only thanks to my helmet and I haven't been on a horse since without it. Likewise, I don't ever ride my bike without it either. Anything can happen.

Rita, I wouldn't have raced due to the fact that I most likely would have been too shaken and afraid to further injure myself. It's why I didn't get back on for two days. Glad you were wearing a helmet! Glad you are okay!

Riding with other more been there, done that cyclists helps. The guy I rode with was an older gentleman who was about my pace when I am body sore and it was a good confidence builder. There was a place where the pavement sometimes gets wet. I unclipped and walked just in case!