Ex-Chicago Bear Lucky to Be Alive After His Car Flips Eight Times

The Chicago Tribune reported that a Tacoma vehicle driven by ex-Chicago Bear, Doug Plank, 64, flipped several times while he driving on Interstate 17 in Arizona. Plank was known for giving his own hits as a feared defensive secondary player for the Bears when it was coached by Buddy Ryan. None of those hits compared to the hits his car took when he lost control of his vehicle near Flagstaff. The accident happened as Plank accelerated while entering the Interstate from an entrance ramp.

The vehicle flipped eight times according to the driver behind him. Plank feared for his life and safety. He was afraid the truck would catch fire. Miraculously, the vehicle ended up with its tires on the road after the multiple rotations. Plank fled out the window because of the concern about the gas tank igniting and because the door wouldn’t open.

The physical and emotional suffering after a crash happens

The ex-Bear was taken to a nearby hospital where he was treated for:

• A compressed lung
• Eight broken ribs
• A fractured vertebra
• Numerous cuts and brushed

He received 46 stitches.

Plank remarked that at a time like this “Your life flashes in front of you.” Visions of his parents, wife, children, and brother appeared while the car was careening down the road.

After treatment, Plank went to the yard where the truck was taken. The passenger side roof was completely compressed. If a passenger had been with him, the passenger likely would have been killed. Plank joked that he’ll need a new car and some new Chicago Bears stickers for the rear.

While he recovers, Plank is finishing a book on his playing days and the successes and challenges he’s had to face. The book will need a new ending to deal with this latest chapter in his life.

Plank said the pain is so bad that “Every time I move I can hear those ribs inside me popping like popcorn. Even my shoulders, with the two replacements, I can hear those things popping.”

If your car accident was caused by the negligence of a driver, bad road design, or for any reason; the Chicago lawyers at Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers can help. We understand how frightening and upsetting car accidents are. We work with your doctors to help you resume your life. Our attorneys work with the police, investigators, and others to determine why the car accident happened and who is at fault. To discuss your accident case, please phone us 312-600-9585 or reach us through our contact form.