On a cold winter afternoon years back, I accidentally collided with a pole while backing up.
As I was heading to my job at a frustrating local outlet mall, I unexpectedly found a prime parking spot. Usually, due to the mall’s popularity, I had to park quite far from my workplace. After several months of this routine, I gave up on finding closer spots. However, this day I was running late, so I impulsively drove to the front of the parking lot.
To my surprise, I spotted an open space tucked away in a narrow corner.
I quickly maneuvered into the spot, aware that the curvature of the curb made it a tricky fit—only a compact car could comfortably fit there. Adding to the challenge was the cylindrical concrete base of an old light pole at the curb’s edge, which required entering the space at an angle; failing to do so meant risking contact with the base.
Later that evening, after a long winter day, I slumped into my car, exhausted. With Christmas making people less pleasant, I was eager to leave. Sadly, in my tiredness, I forgot about the hidden pole base that wasn’t visible in my rear-view mirror and slammed my car into reverse, only to hear the dreadful sound of crunching metal.
As a result, my new car suffered its first damage—while I easily replaced the tail-light, the slightly crushed bumper remained damaged for the life of the vehicle.
Frustrated with myself, I cautiously reversed further to avoid hitting the concrete barrier again and found a well-lit area to inspect the damage further. Just as I began to document the wreckage with pictures, I heard honking from the nearby highway entrance.
A massive black Ford F-450 raced into the parking lot at an alarming speed, zooming toward the recently vacated space in the crowded holiday parking. As I watched, the truck barreled towards the space, only for its brakes to screech in vain as it collided with the pole base.
Given the circumstances, the collision wasn’t catastrophic, but the truck’s front left corner seemed to require extensive repairs, likely involving airbags being deployed. I lingered to ensure the passengers were alright, as bystanders rushed to assist them. Satisfied to see they were okay, I drove away, amused by the scenario. “Accidents can happen to anyone,” I mused. “But witnessing someone else’s misfortune has a way of brightening your mood.”
San Antonio Spurs vs. Philadelphia 76ers
March 21, 2025 | 7:00 PM CT
Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southwest/NBA TV | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)
Spurs Injuries: Victor Wembanyama – Out, DeAaron Fox – Out, Charles Bassey – Out
Sixers Injuries: Adem Bona – Out, Andre Drummond – Out, Kyle Lowry – Out, Kelly Oubre Jr. – Out, Lonnie Walker IV – Out, Tyrese Maxey – Out, Paul George – Out, Joel Embiid – Out, Eric Gordon – Out, Jared McCain – Out
For insights from the Sixers’ perspective, please visit Liberty Ballers.
PtR’s Game thread will be active this evening for those looking to discuss the game. You can also track the action via PtR’s Twitter feed.
