An accident is just that - an accident! That's why we pay for/have insurance. No reason at all for you to feel guilty about that.

I've had, unfortunately, more than one bike-related accident that required insurance payments for me and for bike replacement. Broke my pelvis one time, scraped off a good amount of skin from my face/concussion/cracked bike frame another occasion. First time, I blame myself for inattention in a paceline. Second time, not my fault at all. It was either crash into a curb or be under a car. (I chose the curb and major endo.)

Getting back on the bike after the first accident was tough!! I couldn't ride with a group at first. It's been 11 years and I still have slight anxiety in groups/pacelines. But.......... I was back on the bike the very first day that my Ortho ok'd me.

Second accident, I looked scary with a swollen, bruised face. But the rest of me was ok, and I was back on the bike after a week. Leery of cars, yes, but could not give up riding.

For me, being on a bike is part of who I am. Doesn't matter how many people thought I was crazy for getting back out there. Riding is in my heart and soul. You will need to decide how important it is to you. That's what matters. If we can give you support and courage here, wonderful! But it still comes down to whatever decision you make. I wish you the best, whatever that decision may be.

SR