It’s been some time since I last penned my thoughts, particularly after the emotionally charged results of the India 2024 elections. The heartbreak felt akin to India’s World Cup cricket loss to Australia. Yet, amidst these times, I’ve found solace and joy in spending time with my little angel, who recently turned one. Coming back to the point, Today I want to share a recent car accident and a significant choice I made nearly a decade ago—the decision to buy a Ford car, That saved our life.

Decision to Buy a Ford

Nearly a decade ago, inspired by Henry Ford’s biography and his unwavering commitment to car safety, I decided that my next car would be a Ford. I made good on that decision in 2015 when I bought a Ford Fiesta. As a biker, I had traveled extensively on two wheels, but as a family man, I preferred the safety and comfort of a car when traveling with my loved ones. Especially post-COVID, as the world resumed traveling, I opted for road trips over trains, appreciating India’s expanding network of highways and smooth routes. Over the years, I’ve clocked over 200,000 kilometers on both my bike and car, always thanking God for keeping me safe from accidents. That was until a week ago during my trip back from Bhopal to Delhi.

The Incident

On this journey coming back to delhi from bhopal, we had an unfortunate encounter. After passing a toll plaza before Shivpuri, we parked our car safely off the road to take a break. Suddenly, a tractor, fortified with iron protection at the front, rammed into us from behind. The impact was terrifying with loud sound, The sheer force of the collision dragged our car 10-15 meters. While in the driver’s seat, I looked back to check on my wife and our little angel, Bhavvya. They were safe but terrified, screaming for me to go out and check, fearing that something worse had happened.

The Damage

In the immediate aftermath, my first concern was for my family’s well-being. Assured that they were safe but shaken, I stepped out to assess the damage. The sight was astonishing, my car’s back right-side panel completely gone along with tearing of the metal body. The tractor driver attempted to maneuver the tractor away, and I angerly shouted at him loudly whether he was drunk, who couldn’t see our car parked safely off the road. I swiftly removed the tractor key to prevent him from leaving the scene. Anger surged through me, but the presence of my family and the reality of being in an unfamiliar place calmed me. I demanded that he pay me the amount I requested, or I would go to the police. However, deep down, I knew involving the police would be futile, as we all know how such cases are typically handled in India by police which only bring pain to complainant.

Thank God it’s Ford

As the NHAI team, who’s primary focus was clearing the road, tried to favour tractor driver, that he is poor and you guys are safe, let go the accident. As the local crowd geather, I realized that escalating the situation could lead to further complications. After assessing the damage and recognizing the solid build of my Ford Fiesta, I decided to accept a modest but fraction of repair cost from the tractor driver and move on. Reflecting on the incident, I am immensely grateful for my decision to buy a Ford car decade ago. If it had been any car from an other manufacturer, the damage would have been extensive, rendering the vehicle unusable and potentially causing severe, life-threatening injuries. The company’s emphasis on safety, as advocated by Henry Ford himself, truly stood the test.

The Journey Continues

Before continuing our journey, I thoroughly checked the car and was convinced it could endure the long 400+ KM drive ahead. Thanks to Ford’s dedication to safety, we reached our destination unharmed. This experience reinforced my belief that purchases, especially significant ones like a car, should prioritize safety, quality, and reliability over mere luxury or convenience.

My View: A decade ago, inspired by Henry Ford’s biography and his commitment to safety, I chose Ford for its reputed emphasis on passenger protection. Today, after this harrowing experience, I am thankful for that choice. The purpose of any purchase should be to enhance our lives, making them safer, better, and more progressive. As I move forward, cherishing moments with my family and continuing our journeys on the open road, I remain grateful for the decisions that have kept us safe. Here’s to more adventures, safeguarded by wise choices and reliable companions like my Ford Fiesta.

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