A moment of silence for a fallen car.. Penny goes down.. [Archive]

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:18 PM

It was the best week. Penny was done, on the road, and any issues were minor. She ran fast, ran hard and felt great.

The people on the road like her, they snapped pictures and tossed "thumbs ups" wherever she went.

It was the culmination of 1.5 years of re-doing her into what I envisioned. A lot of people put in a lot of time and it showed, I was tired but proud.

Since last Friday I had been driving her a lot. Nearly 500 miles so far. Today (Saturday) I was going to take her down to Best Of Show Coachworks so we could rack her up and do a "bolt check". Mainly just to make sure everything was nice and tight. We were also going to fix the window trim that came loose and fix the resulting nick. Small stuff. Was also going to take the guys for a ride in the car.

Got on the 91 fwy and headed off. Car was running sweet and it was nice. In Corona I hit traffic. No surprise, this is California. It was the type that went then stopped, then went then stopped.

I was stopped in Penny.. fully stopped when I heard the screeching of tires. I never saw the full sized GMC 4x4 truck... but I felt the impact.

Luckily I had my foot on the brake rather than just sitting in neutral. That kept me from eating the car in front of me. That and the large gap I generally leave as a cushion.

I knew I was screwed.. royaly.

The guy was sorry, I was furious. At first I thought he pissed himself then I realized he had spilled a drink all over himself. I wanted to choke him.. to death.. repeatedly. After many curse words I calmed and realized that he was sorry. Hey, it's not like he set out that day to screw up my life. The good news it that it was a fully (and I assume heavily) insured company truck. If you live in SoCal you know that was a relief.

He admitted full fault to myself and the CHP. What else could he say with the back of my car creamed? Nothing... I had the flatbed truck carefully load her up and take her to Best Of Show for repair. I'm sure it will take months.

The bad: Needs all new sheetmetal in the back except the roof. Both quarters, both valances, trunk, etc.

The good: (there's always good) the hit was high so all the energy went into the quarters and not the frame which on cursory inspection looks fine. She drives and moves... Oh, and I'm ok.

I was wearing my full harness, it kept me in place and also kept me from banging the cage. I'm sore, I have a headache, but I not in the hospital.

There was really nothing I could do, I was fully stopped in traffic. I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. I guess that's life. I'm sure his insurance will pay (after being a Pain in the ass). BOS is very versed in dealing with insurance companies, so I'm not concerned.

Penny will live again, with fresh sheetmetal and even nicer body work. I joked with the BOS guys that the only f'd panels are the ones that they didn't paint. lol

I will post a picture.. but it's not for the faint of heart.. Remember to be safe out there. You can do EVERYTHING right and still get tagged by someone yapping on a cell phone, sucking down a latte or putting on makeup. It's an inatentive world.
here's the bad part....

ack!

http://picsorban.com/upload/deadpenny.jpg

68protouring454

05-05-2007, 05:25 PM

HOLY ****!!!!! dude i would of **** in his mouth, man i am glad to hear your ok, and at least it does not appear that it got into the rails or roof, damn
on second look, you sure the rear of the drivers rail did not get pushed or folded?? thats right where it attaches to the tail panels inner panel.

ironworks

05-05-2007, 05:26 PM

WOWthat sucks, I cannot say that I would be the same, I would have flipped his car over and over and over. I cannot imagine the heartbreak, all that work.

pushrod243

05-05-2007, 05:26 PM

man that sux, i feel your pain

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:30 PM

The worst part is that those were OEM factory, rust spared original body panels.. :(

The good part is that it can, and will be fixed.. Just a pain in the ass.

Would have done no good to beat down the guy. I'm sure he didn't want to him me anymore than I wanted to be hit. He just zoned out and I had to pay the price.

James OLC

05-05-2007, 05:33 PM

Unbelievable Steve. At least you came out relatively unscathed. Like you said, in the wrong place at the wrong time. Penny was - and is - and will be again - a masterpiece.

Sales@Dutchboys

05-05-2007, 05:34 PM

Man that sux. Glad that no one was hurt. hope everything works out.:)

That is my worst fear with my car.

awr68

05-05-2007, 05:37 PM

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:38 PM

That is my worst fear with my car.

Yep, and thier's no defense.. like getting hit by a meteor. You just hope you're not sitting in the target zone.

She took the hit and sucked the damage into the best areas. At least the frame and suspension is fine. (I hope)

In positive news. I finished shooting her for Super Chevy friday night.. Her feature will still go on :)

jimhamptons

05-05-2007, 05:41 PM

Oh man Steve, that totally sucks.

I am sure Penny will come back better than ever.

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:42 PM

OMG!! That honestly made me sick to my stomach!!

I'm glad you are alright!! To show her crazy bitch attitude she wouldn't let her name (licensee plate) get defaced!! It looks like most of the high dollar parts survived. I guess the fuel system is safe....not that Larry wanted to test a cap this way!

Well on the positive side (if there is one) you got the shoot done last week and you did get to drive her a bit...before this setback.

If that guy was a car guy at all I bet he was feeling REAL bad!!

SOAB this sucks!! :mad:

I told the guy that I wouldn't post his picture online.. people might hunt him down. lol

Yea, the fuel system never spilled a drop. I could have drove home except one LED board bit the dust. The license plate is in perfect shape. An island of perfection in a sea of distruction.

I told the guy to look for the August Super Chevy so he can show his friends which car he destroyed.. lol.. That made him feel really bad.

That and the shouts from the passer-bys saying "OH MY GOD!!!" and other shouts of sympathy for Penny.

customcam

05-05-2007, 05:44 PM

man Steve sorry to hear this
atleast your OK the car can always be fixed but geez that guy needs a few slaps

slck6t9

05-05-2007, 05:44 PM

WOW!!! My stomach really hurts seeing that. Like everyone else has said, at least you are relatively ok. Knowing your past, I'm sure Penny will come out bigger and better. Since she still runs, and has a couple scratches, now might be the time to run her around a track without worrying. Sorry....

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:46 PM

WOW!!! My stomach really hurts seeing that. Like everyone else has said, at least you are relativeatly ok. Knowing your past, I'm sure Penny will come out bigger and better. Since she still runs, and has a couple scratches, now might be the time to run her around a track without worrying. Sorry....

Hey, I should call BULLRUN... :rofl:

The painter at BOS almost cried.. Now they get to say they painted the WHOLE car.

Here's a shot I took 15 hours before... Sorta sexy with the rain clouds in the background...

http://picsorban.com/upload/pennytime.jpg

Ummgawa

05-05-2007, 05:49 PM

MY MY MY MY MY......:wow:

awr68

05-05-2007, 05:50 PM

Go to a Dr. in the morning if you feel any internal...or any pain for that matter! My wife is still hurt from getting rearended a few years ago! She has a screwed up sholder for life....and you took a WAY bigger hit!! Keep track of all expences, you'll need it in the end!!

A couple years ago a friend of mine told me of a 'very nice' first gen Camaro on the side of a freeway near where I live that just got rear ended. It appeared the car was just finished and the poor owner was in tears on the side of the road! Man, I'm not sure how I'd feel if this happed to me. I've been working on mine for 5yrs and still have a ways to go! That's work/time they can't pay you for in my mind!

At least BOS knows you and Penny real well and you both are in good hands!!

XcYZ

05-05-2007, 05:55 PM

Simply sickening. :willy: :( :mad:

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 05:56 PM

Thanks guys.. I'm trying to keep a positive attitude.. and I will see if I feel any better tomorrow.

awr68

05-05-2007, 05:59 PM

That helped put a smile on my face! What a Bad Bitch she is!!

nvawgn

05-05-2007, 06:12 PM

so sorry brah, good to hear you are OK, sheetmetal can be replaced and so can that brand new complete subframe:unibrow:

radrambler

05-05-2007, 06:16 PM

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 06:20 PM

damn steven

thats terrible
i would be in a state of shock !!! ida probably stroked out...:omg:
so it appears just sheetmetal damage? cause thats a hard lick ....
damn sorry to hear that this happened......i guess the good part was you didnt make a sandwich outa her by hitting the car in front of you .more freakin work
just what you needed!!!
good luck..post some cut up picks ..

radrambler

The hit was nearly straight and dead center. The frame is pretty stout with the cage and all. We crawled under and it looks square. so far.

The hit was high and that was a blessing. Most of the energy traveled through the quarters and soft rear valances.

Derek69SS

05-05-2007, 06:20 PM

Been there, done that...

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/DerekOuch.jpg

Cars can be fixed. Don't let this kill your enthusiasm for the car... it did for me for a while. Even after it was fixed, I couldn't enjoy driving it because I was so paranoid. I was even really close to selling it at one point, then I realized how fun it is to modify it, and the enthusiasm and fun of driving it came back. :thumbsup: When I realized I fixed it once (er... twice if you count the resto), and I could do it again, the paranoia went away.

BTW, that's Keith Anderson's El Camino in the background before it became a bitchin' PT ride. :)

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 06:27 PM

I forgot the BESTEST part...

I got a ticket for no proof of insurance. It was in my bag in the trunk and it wouldn't open.

:rofl:

IIisbetter

05-05-2007, 06:30 PM

Glad to hear you were not hurt too bad. Keep up the positive attitude and it is still one of the baddest cars out there. That picture is sick, my new background.

lil427z

05-05-2007, 06:37 PM

steve , when it rains it poors. if i can help let me know.
rick k

kp.touring

05-05-2007, 06:39 PM

Steve,
Glad to here you are OK, bummed about Penny, but as they said about Steve Austin "we can build him faster, stronger, better".
Kevin

radrambler

05-05-2007, 06:48 PM

I forgot the BESTEST part...

I got a ticket for no proof of insurance. It was in my bag in the trunk and it wouldn't open.

:rofl: thats crazy
on a lighter note
....every part on the back of the car got squished..but the custom tag...
go figure....

damn lucky he didnt hit those pretty fuel lines i see....:wow:
did ya get my last email?

radrambler

Mr.VENGEANCE

05-05-2007, 06:53 PM

hell i guess you have to laugh to keep from crying..:wow:

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 06:56 PM

hell i guess you have to laugh to keep from crying..:wow:

It's f'd up, no doubt about it, but it can be fixed. I just get a bunch more drama in my life and I have a killer headache..

GHOSTDANCER

05-05-2007, 07:14 PM

:censored: Very sorry

tndude

05-05-2007, 07:22 PM

Thanks guys.. I'm trying to keep a positive attitude.. and I will see how I feel in the morning.

Man that sucks!! I'm so sorry Steve. :(

You can use this experience for an article on how important it is to carry good insurance and making sure you have a valid appraisal to back up the value of the car. Just in case the other guys insurance tries to screw you then you will have the protection of your own insurance. This would be very helpful to people because I bet most readers just don't understand how important it is to carry the right insurance for a classic car. Especially for those people that have cars with significant value. I bet if you look at blue book vs. what someone has in the car....there is going to be a pretty good gap.

Just an idea. Penny will be back!!;)

4mm

05-05-2007, 07:26 PM

Sorry for the loss Steve. I know you poured your heart out into building Penny to the point you sometimes considered selling (but not seriously) due to all the frustration.

Look to the brightside, you will probably have some money left over for that Z06 you always wanted. :) Penny might now get a new friend LOL.

sixtnine

05-05-2007, 07:29 PM

I just got home from the local Japaneese steak house and checked the site. I want to puke! Not from the food. Almost the exact same thing happened to me in my Camaro back in 94, only it was a 71 Jeep Commando and a 16 year old girl. I went a whole summer without my hotrod. The damage was not quite as severe as Penny but 8 months later I was back on the road again. Since that day I watch my rearview mirror like a hawk when I am driving. Man that sucks so bad. I hate that happened to you and Penny. Im speechless.

ZZ3ElCamino

05-05-2007, 07:36 PM

Steve, I am so so sorry to see that your baby is now in pain! When I opened this thread my heart sunk and and said "oh my god what the F happend". Like you said, it doesn't do any good to sock the guy. As much as it sucks, Penny can be fixed. At least you are okay!!!!! Hang in there Steve we all feel for ya!

va72mlibu

05-05-2007, 07:43 PM

Horrible story. Glad to hear you're ok, but I second the trip to the hospital tomorrow. Make SURE you're ok while it's on Mr Careless's tab.

clill

05-05-2007, 07:44 PM

That sucks. At least you weren't all signed up for Power tour in a few weeks. I would insist on NOS GM sheetmetal. Start looking for it on Ebay. Damn....

MODO Innovations

05-05-2007, 07:46 PM

I forgot the BESTEST part...

I got a ticket for no proof of insurance. It was in my bag in the trunk and it wouldn't open.

:rofl:

I don't know if this is a good thing or a bad thing.

I will call it a "pass" on the welding and impact test for the Trunk Latch kit.

.....I think...LOL:D

BTW. This made me gasp when I saw the thread title. I feel your pain.

You need to use the opening riff from the "SIX MILLION DOALLR MAN"...."We can build him(or in this case her) stronger and faster".

Now all you need is the nuh,nuh,nuh,nuh sound for your horn?????

BC69

05-05-2007, 07:46 PM

Worst fears!!!! I am sorry Steve....we have all watched for years as that car came to life! Even though it will get fixed it is in some ways not same.

Best of Luck...hope the insurance works out to the fulllesstttt!!

130fe

05-05-2007, 08:08 PM

Steve, sorry to hear about the damage. At least you weren't seriously hurt, car parts are easier to replace than body parts.

Steve1968LS2

05-05-2007, 08:17 PM

Even though it will get fixed it is in some ways not same.

Best of Luck...hope the insurance works out to the fulllesstttt!!

Thanks for the kind words, makes it easier to deal with.

Will see a doc tomorrow or Monday, stiffening up a bit. Gonna send Simpson a box of chocolates though.

jski67

05-05-2007, 08:29 PM

I'm so sorry to see that.

But at least you're ok. I know it sucks, but remember, it's only sheetmetal.

The same thing happened to me in my 67 the day I graduated college. What
was supposed to be a great day turned into a nightmare. But it got fixed and is still in my garage, 14 years later.

I don't post much, but I've been watching your build since you bought it.
It's still a beautiful car and I'm sure it will be perfect again soon!

Best of luck,
Jason

awr68

05-05-2007, 09:13 PM

Gonna send Simpson a box of chocolates though.

Isn't it funny how most insurance companies won't insure a car that has a roll bar/cage and harnesses...but in your case (IMHO) it saved major personal injury and possible frame damage to the car. Also, Penny's killer low ride height has to be thanked, I would think a stock height car would have been damaged much worse...probably totaled.

Did the steering wheel/column take any abuse? Did your wife go for a ride before today's happenings?

zcrz

05-05-2007, 09:28 PM

:evil: :evil: Still would have been nice to club the guy, some people are total idiots....sweet car...

BLT2DRIVE

05-05-2007, 09:56 PM

I feel sick to my stomach. She'll shine back-up. Man, what a bummer. I get crap for 3rd brake lights and such on my street rods, but I've seen them locked up, crossed up,sliding in the rear view mirror, still talking on the phone. L.A. sucks..........

Musclerodz

05-05-2007, 10:03 PM

Not even my car and i am sick to my stomach. Feel for ya, unfotunately things happen, but Penny seems to keep living up to her bitch status. First the motor, now this.:(

mike

jannes_z-28

05-05-2007, 10:21 PM

That was a sad story to read, I feel really sorry for you Steve. This is a carguys worst nightmare. And as some already has pointed out, it is important to have the right insurance and also to have had the car valued. I called my company the other day the get mine revalued (higher amount). Even though it isn't your fault you have to have it valued in your insurance.

I am glad to hear that you are OK, but be sure to get a full examination. Rearending can give you serious damage in your neck.

We will all wait for her rebirth.

Jan

Streetking

05-05-2007, 10:30 PM

Steve, I just saw this..I'm in shock. I am so sorry about this, you know how I feel about Penny..I'm glad your ok but this really sucks. Even after you picked her up from my house, I still felt a attachment to her and during the build It was like you were doing everything I would have done to her..man this sucks..

I'm glad that she can and will be fixed.

good luck,

SW

Bowtieracing

05-06-2007, 12:13 AM

Sorry to hear Steve! Happy to hear at you are ok! Sheet metal is sheet metal and this just proves badpennys street reputation even harder.

Bandit

05-06-2007, 12:17 AM

Steve,
:wow: I was shocked to see that this happened--good on ya for keeping a positive attitude. I am sure you will have her fixed and all spiffed up again in no time. I was glad to hear that you were able to get the picture shoot done before the accident so you can still go ahead with the feature at least. Good luck with the insurance company and medical, document everything and take care...:thumbsup:

comp-spec

05-06-2007, 12:34 AM

That sucks, Sorry to hear

Smack_talker

05-06-2007, 07:44 AM

Damn Steve...I fell a little sick to see that pic and read the story. Glad your ok but i'd be in jail right now for second degree murder. You should have at least busted him in the mouth for being a idiot. WTF was he doing instead of paying attention??:rolleyes:

rockatanski

05-06-2007, 07:54 AM

dude, that is a total shame. i prolly woulda puked on the guy. beautiful car, hope its up and running better than ever soon. good luck!

67Sally

05-06-2007, 07:57 AM

Damn! Glad to hear you are ok and that Penney will be ok too.
W

WicKeD_SS

05-06-2007, 08:03 AM

OMG! When I seen the pic I thought I was going to throw up. I love your car, look at the pics all the time. I would have no clue on how you felt when it happen. Like others, Im hoping when I get mine done that dont happen to me. She is a beautiful car, and im sure your'll have her back in no time. Its just a shame. Best of luck with the rebuild.

mazspeed

05-06-2007, 08:11 AM

Dodgenut64

05-06-2007, 08:46 AM

Dude. I think we all have this nightmare about getting are cars done and not long after some idiot not paying attention slams into the back of it, or pulls out in front of it and SLAM. Good thing your OK, but id still get checked out by a doctor, youll be surprised what happens to your body in an accident. Im glad youll be able to fix her, i hate to see a good horse put down.
I guess thats the chance we take when we turn the key and head out for a drive, but you know if you were in your daily driver he never would have hit ya. Seems the old classics are a magnet for idiot drivers.
Poor Penny.

DRJDVM's '69

05-06-2007, 09:25 AM

surreyboy

05-06-2007, 09:51 AM

my stomach felt uneasy as i scrolled down to see the pic, that really sucks,That car is beautiful.

Steve1968LS2

05-06-2007, 10:20 AM

Oh man Steve. I just saw this. The thing is, is that you are ok, and Penny will be fixed. Some people I swear, when I'm behind a car like that, I tend to be a little more cautious that I don't hit it and not shove a Big Mac into my face while driving. What kind of bonehead cop would not over look the ticket, does he think someone would drive a car like that without insurance? Steve, you have your health and your car is in great hands, it's just time and insurance money my friend. Luckily you have plenty of it. What's the bill, or do you know what it's going to cost yet?

Somewhere around $10k - $15k is my laymans guess. The real test is when the quarters are opened up.

Yea, the ticket thing was silly, I think even the cop would agree. lol

My garage is empty and that's sad. I think I will take these two month to totally revamp the garage with new drywall, cabinets and paint.

Tomorrow I start making calls to insurance companies.

Steve1968LS2

05-06-2007, 10:21 AM

Holy crap.....

I bet the guy was totally focused on "what a cool car in front of me" and forgot to think about stopping distance and before he knew it, it was too late.
I get alittle freaked out when stupid people do stupid things around you just to get alook at your car. They stop paying attention to the road and just stare at your car.

Man that sucks big time. Not to mention its 100x worse in the fact that you just finnished her.

I can only imagine how you feel....

I think the guy was taking a drink. I shot a pic of him when he got out of the truck. He was soaking wet so he was holding a drink. I figured it could come in handy if this goes to court. Glad I always carry a camera. :)

RussMS

05-06-2007, 11:06 AM

DA**IT Man I am so pissed off for you. Its morons like that that make me not want to drive my little car, and she is no Penny. Sorry man I am not sure I could restrain myself at least to take a swing at the moron.

Good Luck with the fix, Man that sucks.

Flash68

05-06-2007, 12:58 PM

What a damn shame... so sorry to see this...

J2SpeedandCustom

05-06-2007, 01:15 PM

Steve that just sucks! My brother told me about it this morning at the shop, and it made my stomach hurt.

I'm sure she we be just fine in do time.

JamesJ

05-06-2007, 01:41 PM

I just realized what this post was about. Cant say anything that has not already been said...

awr68

05-06-2007, 01:55 PM

At this point I'm a little curious what you 'have planned' for the rebuild! ;)

So BOS is estimating a couple months for the rebuild? That's not to bad at all!!

mazspeed

05-06-2007, 02:19 PM

Steve, you should post his picture here. Not his name but his picture. That's the least you can do. :D

Bandit Ls-1

05-06-2007, 02:24 PM

OMG MAN!. Its not even my car and im feeling sick just reading about this. well atleast now you can improve on anything that you didnt on the build...if their is any lol cuz that car was perfect!, best of luck man.

RaceMan

05-06-2007, 03:15 PM

Well you've got the right attitude!! Get on with it , That really sucks !! but you can't dwell on it , I've spent many hours working(not your 2 years) on race cars and destroid a couple on their first race, one we took out the engine , trans and some misc parts and had to junk the rest. I'm sure you'll have it going better than before.

aussiebj

05-06-2007, 05:26 PM

Glad to see your ok and had safety in mind when you built her hope all goes well with the insurance its been 3 yrs since my accident and i am finally getting somewhere ...hope you dont have to wait that long....

Derek69SS

05-06-2007, 06:20 PM

Its morons like that that make me not want to drive my little car, and she is no Penny.As I said on page 3, don't let this happen to you... they can be fixed, and if not, there's more out there. Don't let a little fear of damage keep you from enjoying the car. :_paranoid

MattG

05-06-2007, 06:55 PM

Wow, we have all followed this build and this is painful to say the least. I went throught the same thing a couple years back, only a few days on the road with my dream car and smacked the front end. The pain and shock cannot be described but as you said there is a bright side.

Just having the health to rebuild is a blessing, and years after my accident, I can look back and honestly say that I learned some important lessons and am looking forward to many more cars and meeting many more people in the hobby.

This brings us all together and we will all look forward to when Penny hits the road again!!!

God Bless and good luck!

Matt

3kidsnotime

05-06-2007, 07:21 PM

That is sickening, Very glad your OK!! On top of it all you have the best demeanor of any individual I have ever known..... Long Live Penny!!!

RedRyder

05-06-2007, 08:06 PM

Sorry to hear about that. My heart sank as I read your post, because I know how sad I'd be if that happened to my car. It's a beautiful car and I'm glad to here it will live again

youthpastor

05-06-2007, 09:00 PM

Just found out... I pretty much feel like throwing up-Chris

jeff hanson

05-06-2007, 09:26 PM

OUCH!!! That sucks! Trush called me and said "Dude, are you near your computer? You gotta see this!" He told me what happened, but when you see it for yourself, it's just sick. Glad your ok. This reminds me of my first car that I took to Autorama (67 Chevelle) back in highschool. My buddies were behind me in a K-car when a bus cut me off, so I had to slam my brakes on, and you guessed it, BAM! Not as bad as yours, but for a highschool kid it was the end of the world. We draped a t-shirt over the back to cover most of the damage and I still got 1st in the highschool class! :lol: . I think the worst part is you now know what you will be missing for the next 2 months, having driven it for 500 miles. Maybe it will rain for 2 months!:lol: Hang in there, sounds like you're doing the best you can considering. She'll be back!:thumbsup:

Spiffav8

05-06-2007, 10:24 PM

At first I thought he pissed himself then I realized he had spilled a drink all over himself

I say you invite him out the next time you show the car and watch him do this for real when everyone gangs up on him. Wonder how much hate mail there website has received.

Glad you've got the right attitude about all this. :thumbsup:

Curtis

tyoneal

05-07-2007, 12:59 AM

I don't know what to say that already hasn't been said, but I to am really sorry about your accident.

I was able to see her a few weeks back while she was in the shop. I was really impressed, what a beauty!!

I was with Mark in Lateral-1 at the time and we had dropped by.

Penny will heal a lot faster than you would and at a substantially lesser cost.

I hope getting her back to new will be quick and painless.

Keep us posted.

Take Care,

Ty O'Neal

Payton King

05-07-2007, 07:41 AM

It was just last year the same thing happened to me. I had just bought the 93 BMW 850ci and had it a month. Sitting at a stop light and a guy in a Ford 150 drove right into the back of me.

You just lived my biggest fear of driving my car when it is done. I have visions of getting hit at a stop sign in my neighborhood.

You also need to make a diminished value claim...no longer does she have virgin sheet metal. Give me a call and I will explain.

V8TV

05-07-2007, 07:51 AM

Steve,

Our whole crew sends condolences... we're getting ready for the first drive on the Royal Sport Camaro this week, and we're both excited and nervous at the same time. Sure, Penny will be fixed, but you really didn't need to go through this mess. Glad you're not hurt, good luck with the car, and we'll see you on the road soon!

- Kevin Oeste

rockdogz

05-07-2007, 08:11 AM

Dang man... Dunno what to say. Guess you need more than a trim piece now. Glad you're ok. :mad:

Steve1968LS2

05-07-2007, 08:26 AM

Dang man... Dunno what to say. Guess you need more than a trim piece now. Glad you're ok. :mad:

Yea, but it polished up REAL nice.. lol..

I have an appointment to see a doc today. I can't shake this headache and my upper shoulder is bugging me.

Thanks guys, I may not respond to every post, but I read every one of them and the thoughts and comments make this much easier.

Mecom Racer

05-07-2007, 09:44 AM

So sorry to see how that guy bitchslapped your baby Steve. That was always my worst fear and a hit like that would've totalled my one-piece fiberglass bodied GS. It's good to know that Penny will live again. It has to... it's my absolute all-time favorite Camaro! :bow:

Diognes56

05-07-2007, 10:34 AM

Glad you are, for the most part, ok Steve. I do have to say, even broken Penny still looks hot. I hope everything goes smoothly with the insurance and with the repairs. I am so sorry that this happenned. As many have said, this is also my worst nightmare when my car gets done. I would be impossible to be around untill the car was fixed if it was me. Hopefully it will not be down long.

David

BThibodeaux

05-07-2007, 12:06 PM

Sorry to hear it Steve. What a mess. Well, the car could use fresh paint anyway. Right...

I am glad you are OK, and I hope you can get that headache straightened out quickly

96z28ss

05-07-2007, 12:53 PM

I can't put into words how I would feel if that happen to me once the car was done.

Wishing you a speedy recovery on both you and the car.

Lets see how good the insurance is when it comes to pay for work on a car that is 40 years old.

Rybar

05-07-2007, 01:56 PM

OMG Steve :( One of my worts nightmares as well. main thing is you are ok and the car can be fixed.

I just heard the news via text message while I was sitting at the airport in Las Vegas hung over last night. I am SOOOOO sorry about Penny she is just plain badass.

I am glad you are ok and hopefully that headache will go away. And am also very glad that the car is fixable. We all know your'e going to make her even more perfect than before.

BTW the car sounded just plain badass in the burnout vid. Loved it. :hail:

Hope you and the car have a speedy recovery. :yes:

Ryan

Speedster

05-07-2007, 02:29 PM

EFI

05-07-2007, 04:34 PM

Man, I'm nearly speechless. When I read Penny was down, I hadn't even finished viewing the recent posts on the thread - Penny is done and on the road!
Penny is a great car. I looked forward to every build update. After it was completed, I thought - that car must be a blast to drive.
When I saw the picture of Penny after she'd been hit, my chin landed on my chest. All that effort and fine work, damaged, and by a driver who simply wasn't paying attention.
Glad nobody was hurt. You've got a good attitude about the whole thing. Good luck with the re-build.

_______________
- Dan

Roger Poirier

05-07-2007, 04:36 PM

Wow Steve that blows, but I am glad to see the car dented and not you. Sheet metal can be replaced, skulls are a little harder to come by. You'll get it fixed, we know you will. It'll all workout. Just a bummer when it happens. Keep Smilin' :)

I'm a betting man and I believe the car will end up being nicer once it is fixed. Knowing Steve from these car forums, in the end the car will be better after the repairs are made. Every time he works on the car it evolves to another level. I expect the same thing will happen again. Good luck!

R.P.

Autokraft

05-07-2007, 04:37 PM

Damn Steve, Just saw this thread. Sorry to see this happen. Good to hear you are ok, car can be fixed no doubt and will be better than ever when all is said and done. I can't wait for the feature to come out.

JayR

05-07-2007, 05:07 PM

So sorry, Dude. That is completely sickening and a grim reminder to all of us but I'm a big believer in "it could always be worse" and I can tell you get that too.

How much of a kick in the nuts is it that the "Penny Lives" thread is just a few inches down the page from this one???

Keep the faith!

Fluid Power

05-07-2007, 06:15 PM

Steve,

This might be a great article on what happens when a car such as yours is wrecked. Following the insurance, the repairs, etc. Judging by the amount of replies to your thread, I bet a lot of people would be interested in following this in the magazine.

Just a thought.

Darren

youthpastor

05-07-2007, 06:50 PM

Steve1968LS2

05-07-2007, 07:09 PM

I know it'll be better than ever.. your last pic with the clouds is my new screen saver...very cool.

How 'bout putting 67 quarters w/o lights and weld up the fronts????

Just did on my '68... looks clean. Chris

I don't want to repaint the front fenders.. the reason I didn't fill in the fronts is that I didn't want to repaint the rear quarters.. lol

Irony?

So far Alstate has been great, they called me back today and I will know tomorrow (after they interview the driver) if they accept 100% liability. She offered me a rental and said given the details she knows (so far) of the accident that the other guy was totally at fault and that they would fix the car. I even warned her it was an expensive car and repair.

So far Alstate is getting an A+ from me.. will know more tomorrow.

Datsbad

05-07-2007, 07:18 PM

I don't want to repaint the front fenders.. the reason I didn't fill in the fronts is that I didn't want to repaint the rear quarters.. lol

Irony?

So far Alstate has been great, they called me back today and I will know tomorrow (after they interview the driver) if they accept 100% liability. She offered me a rental and said given the details she knows (so far) of the accident that the other guy was totally at fault and that they would fix the car. I even warned her it was an expensive car and repair.

So far Alstate is getting an A+ from me.. will know more tomorrow.

Steve I am so sorry to see this . I am sure everything will workout .
did you get an estimate yet? I thought you said 10,000 in another post.
That would be a deal at 10,000 . I see at least double that .

Steve1968LS2

05-07-2007, 09:12 PM

Steve I am so sorry to see this . I am sure everything will workout .
did you get an estimate yet? I thought you said 10,000 in another post.
That would be a deal at 10,000 . I see at least double that .

newest guess is $15-20k..

Lots 'o cash...

mazspeed

05-07-2007, 09:15 PM

newest guess is $15-20k..

Lots 'o cash...

You should pad that estimate. Just for pain and suffering, and wasted time.

slck6t9

05-08-2007, 12:58 AM

Now a days, aren't decent paint jobs $10-15K?

19topless69

05-08-2007, 06:39 AM

That really sucks! Makes you sick, good luck with everything!

BonzoHansen

05-08-2007, 12:36 PM

Now a days, aren't decent paint jobs $10-15K?

newest guess is $15-20k..

Lots 'o cash...That pic keep bothering me, I'm calling Haggerty this week to raise my limits.

Steve, are you still working on the insurance article? I think this highly unfortunate learning experience it will at least result in great benefit to the community. That isn’t much of a consolation prize, though.

I know it is way too early to ask, but do you think when all is said & done, could you quantify if the 'modifications' to the car (3-link, etc.) materially (say >20%) inflated those costs? What I mean is, if that were a 'regular' show level fit & finish 68 Camaro, but replacing the cool parts with stock parts (or common aftermarket parts, say TTIIs instead of those works of art you call wheels), would the repair be much less? That is a lot of sheet metal to fix. If that were my car, with my current 10k limit, I’d fear total loss even though it isn't 1/100th of the quality of your car. I think drawing a comparison of the 2 scenarios might be a very eye opening experience for many of us. Just a thought.

Hang in there, she will rise - again! :thumbsup:

Steve1968LS2

05-08-2007, 12:47 PM

That pic keep bothering me, I'm calling Haggerty this week to raise my limits.

Steve, are you still working on the insurance article? I think this highly unfortunate learning experience it will at least result in great benefit to the community. That isn’t much of a consolation prize, though.

I know it is way too early to ask, but do you think when all is said & done, could you quantify if the 'modifications' to the car (3-link, etc.) materially (say >20%) inflated those costs? What I mean is, if that were a 'regular' show level fit & finish 68 Camaro, but replacing the cool parts with stock parts (or common aftermarket parts, say TTIIs instead of those works of art you call wheels), would the repair be much less? That is a lot of sheet metal to fix. If that were my car, with my current 10k limit, I’d fear total loss even though it isn't 1/100th of the quality of your car. I think drawing a comparison of the 2 scenarios might be a very eye opening experience for many of us. Just a thought.

Hang in there, she will rise - again! :thumbsup:

Yea, I'm pitching the insurance article. I think it would be good info and at least it's not, yet another, cam swap or typical magazine story.

I want to stage up the wrecked Penny for a lead shot, who wouldn't read that? lol

Also, if I do a quarter panel replacement story could I call it "half penny".. lol

Steve1968LS2

05-08-2007, 12:50 PM

I know it is way too early to ask, but do you think when all is said & done, could you quantify if the 'modifications' to the car (3-link, etc.) materially (say >20%) inflated those costs? What I mean is, if that were a 'regular' show level fit & finish 68 Camaro, but replacing the cool parts with stock parts (or common aftermarket parts, say TTIIs instead of those works of art you call wheels), would the repair be much less? That is a lot of sheet metal to fix. If that were my car, with my current 10k limit, I’d fear total loss even though it isn't 1/100th of the quality of your car. I think drawing a comparison of the 2 scenarios might be a very eye opening experience for many of us. Just a thought.

Hang in there, she will rise - again! :thumbsup:

To answer your question..

What needs to be repaired has zero to do with any fancy parts I have on the car. If this was a stock Camaro the bill would be almost the same since it would need quarters, sheetmetal and paint just like me.

In my case $15k is 15% of the value of the car. In a regular Camaro it could be 50% or more.

Yes, it's a story that needs to be told.

BonzoHansen

05-08-2007, 01:21 PM

How you manage a sense of humor amazes me. Ever see a penny run over by a train?
http://photos.imageevent.com/creekman/miscellaneous/trainpenny.jpg
Sorry, gallows humor. :willy:

That is kind of what I figured - metal is metal, within reason. NOS and quality repop parts aren't cheap either. I was rehanging my front clip over the past few days so I keep thinking about this.

They say a 1st gen on the cover sells rags, so a pretty bashed one shoud too. :_paranoid I think it would show PHR is ahead of the pack. No one does that kind of write up.

Scott-

Steve1968LS2

05-08-2007, 01:56 PM

Alstate called just now and they accept 100% liability. In other words the guy that hit me admitted it was all his fault.

Step one is a win!

Next up is the battle with the insurance adjuster... Wish me luck.

rich-allen

05-08-2007, 02:09 PM

Just don't trust those SOB insurance agents. licensed crooks is what they are and nothing more.

I hope it all works out,

Rich

mazspeed

05-08-2007, 02:47 PM

Just don't trust those SOB insurance agents. licensed crooks is what they are and nothing more.

I hope it all works out,

Rich

I agree. You need to seriously inflate your damage award to get the right amount for your car. Been there and done that. They will throw a low ball offer, unless they accept that it's not your normal camaro, which is hard for them, because they don't typically care and they go by bluebook for that year.

Al Moreno

05-08-2007, 05:10 PM

Hi Steve,

Man that sucks,

On the bright side, this will be an to refine Penny just bit. The idea of shaving the side marker lights doesn't sound bad. Maybe bring in the bumper in and shave the bolts. That makes for a good how to article. Weld a fews seems, tighten up some gaps. Perhaps send the wheels back to get the flat finish you wanted, shave the trunk and door key hole, etc....

The only condolence is that I know that Penny is going to be even more BITCHING in the end.

Glad to hear your ok.

Al

JimM

05-08-2007, 06:55 PM

I agree. You need to seriously inflate your damage award to get the right amount for your car. Been there and done that. They will throw a low ball offer, unless they accept that it's not your normal camaro, which is hard for them, because they don't typically care and they go by bluebook for that year.

What they should, and probably will do, is let you take it to the shop of your choice, and pay the entire bill with no quibling. You shouldn't even have to be involved.

I put a 98 vette into a ditch leaving my lakehouse in wisconsin once. Then tried to drive between a large sewage pumping station and a 2' diamter oak tree. Unfortunatley, the space was 6" narrower than the car. She lodged just in front of the doors.

I actually tried to back her out, looked in the rear view mirror just in time to see one of the front tires hit the ground 40 feet behind me. That damned LS2 was still purring like a kitten, but the PCM was laying on the ground in a puddle!

A neighbor recommended a shop about 40 miles away that retores corvettes. Insurance company had it tows there, and 4 months later I got it back good as new. Never saw a bill, never saw an estimate, just handed the shop owner my check for the deductible and drove her home.

Damage was 17k plus

JimM

05-08-2007, 06:58 PM

oh yea, darned sorry this happened Steve.
Was just last Friday I was reading all the posts about her being done :(

mazspeed

05-08-2007, 07:37 PM

What they should, and probably will do, is let you take it to the shop of your choice, and pay the entire bill with no quibling. You shouldn't even have to be involved.

I put a 98 vette into a ditch leaving my lakehouse in wisconsin once. Then tried to drive between a large sewage pumping station and a 2' diamter oak tree. Unfortunatley, the space was 6" narrower than the car. She lodged just in front of the doors.

I actually tried to back her out, looked in the rear view mirror just in time to see one of the front tires hit the ground 40 feet behind me. That damned LS2 was still purring like a kitten, but the PCM was laying on the ground in a puddle!

A neighbor recommended a shop about 40 miles away that retores corvettes. Insurance company had it tows there, and 4 months later I got it back good as new. Never saw a bill, never saw an estimate, just handed the shop owner my check for the deductible and drove her home.

Damage was 17k plus

I have been on the other end with an insurance company. I got rear ended in an older Porsche, and their insurance tried to tell me where to take it, and that they were only going to pay so much for the claim. I pretty much told then to get f****d and we haggled to the point where I almost hired a lawyer, and after that they caved, but I had to produce receipts to replicate the work done on the car. It was a major pain in the ass. Not only that, they wanted to use after market body panels, not Porsche panels.

rwhite692

05-08-2007, 08:29 PM

Steve - I've been away for a while, just seeing this thread now. I'm so sorry to hear. Thankfully (and most importantly) no one was seriously hurt. I'm sure she will be even better when BOS gets done. Hang in there, man. -Rob

TonyG

05-08-2007, 10:24 PM

I would be in jail for murder. That is absolutely insane..

Hate for everyone that worked on this project and put there heart and soul into it.

JamesD

05-10-2007, 02:25 PM

I'm not gonna lie, living vicariously through your car build has been fun. Hate to see it end up like this. Glad you are well. Now that you will have the back end all apart, ever think of replacing the SS tank, with a real bladder lined fuel cell? Would one fit with the LD three link?

Steve1968LS2

05-10-2007, 03:04 PM

Hate to see it end up like this.

Not "end".. just delayed.. Penny Version 1.2 will be back on the road in a few months.

Yep, alreayd working with Fuel Safe on a tank with a bladder. HOWEVER, the tank for Rick's held tight even with a big hit. That says a lot about the quality of thier welds and workmanship.

Oh, and the fuel cell would have zero problem fitting with the LD 3-link system.

ChevyThunder

05-11-2007, 12:58 AM

Wow.. I just read this thread... at least the guy who hit you didn't even try to candy coat it and took full responsibility. That is rare these days. I had the same thing happen to a Porsche I built. It was on a 70 chassis and it had a full tube frame and the body panels, roof and everything was carbon fiber. This was only 400hp but wieghed 1900 lbs wet :) All the aftermarket Porsche body panels fit like crap so just to make the panels fit perfect and paint was very costly . Got hit.. and I have to say , Farmers paid out almost 30k after I supplied them with some photos of build and receipts, met with the adjuster... and I was paid in less than two weeks. Hopefully your experience will be as good.
And I am glad you were belted.. guys don't realize that the human body and belts stretch in an impact.. and an unhelmeted head doesn't like eating chrome moly or mild steel tubing !