The trouble with bike helmets.....

.....is that if you land face first they don't help.

Doesn't look that bad now, if only BigFootCookie had taken a picture of my "red scarf" it might have warranted a submission to BikeMagic.

The scenario: The first rainy day for weeks, a thunderstorm at that and heavy rain to boot, adding up to a slick slippery surface on the corner of Lionel & Newhall. I'm riding along at a fair pace (never got to find out but I'm sure it was going to be a record time), approaching the final corner before I get to work. The lights turn to red, but hey I'm on my bike and it's an easy left turn, so I make sure all is clear and go for the turn.
The accident: I feel the bike slide from under me, my SPD pedals somehow detach, and I go face first into the tarmac, breaking part of my fall with my left arm, breaking the rest with my chin.
The damage: Me - 2 holes in my chin, one mended with stitches the other mended with glue. (see above). A sprained wrist/arm that feels more broken to me. Several minor cuts and bruises. My Bike - No major damage, just a cool battle scar on the rear quick release. My clothes - completely undamaged, even the blood has washed out!
Big Thanks to: The couple of samaritans who picked me up from the middle of the road and made sure I was OK. BigFootCookie and TheStang for patching me up and putting me in the correct recovery position. RedGypsy for calling the paramedics - my first ride in an ambulance, woohoo. And MrMaloney, waiting for hours in the hospital supplying me with tea and coffee and giving me a lift home. Oh, and Gayle, thanks for the Chocolate Hobnob Biscuit Bar :)