My new CLS 550 and the intersting story behind it.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 4
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From: Chicago
CLS 550
My new CLS 550 and the interesting story behind it.
Back in November of last year I was in the market for a new vehicle. I never owned anything except Japanese sports cars and since I'm a 23yr old business owner, I figured I would get a more professional and age appropriate German Luxury car.
I saw a great deal on a 2008 E350 with 20K miles so I bought it. I enjoyed the car for the short time I owned it.
A few weeks after purchasing the car I was driving home late. I was up early that day at meetings, back and forth through traffic etc... I ended up driving home and fell asleep at the wheel on 290. I remember trying to get home quickly because I was tired and I set the cruise control on 75. There was a prior accident on the expressway and the lanes had been merged down to one.
Being half asleep I didn't notice this and ran head on into the back of a 15 ton IDOT emergency vehicle at full speed. I don't remember much from the actual impact because I was knocked unconscious.
THANKFULLY, despite my irresponsible actions, NO ONE was hurt during the accident. I was rushed to the hospital and cleared after a few hours of testing with not even a single scratch on me.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that car saved my life. If I was in any other sports car that I normally drive I would have been seriously injured if not killed upon impact. Needless to say I have definitely learned my lesson and I think I'll have at least 1 Benz in my garage for a VERY long time.
I went and picked up this beauty. A 2008 CLS550. Believe me, despite the significant horsepower increase, I don't drive this beast more than 60. Plus it saves gas
I saw a great deal on a 2008 E350 with 20K miles so I bought it. I enjoyed the car for the short time I owned it.
A few weeks after purchasing the car I was driving home late. I was up early that day at meetings, back and forth through traffic etc... I ended up driving home and fell asleep at the wheel on 290. I remember trying to get home quickly because I was tired and I set the cruise control on 75. There was a prior accident on the expressway and the lanes had been merged down to one.
Being half asleep I didn't notice this and ran head on into the back of a 15 ton IDOT emergency vehicle at full speed. I don't remember much from the actual impact because I was knocked unconscious.
THANKFULLY, despite my irresponsible actions, NO ONE was hurt during the accident. I was rushed to the hospital and cleared after a few hours of testing with not even a single scratch on me.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that car saved my life. If I was in any other sports car that I normally drive I would have been seriously injured if not killed upon impact. Needless to say I have definitely learned my lesson and I think I'll have at least 1 Benz in my garage for a VERY long time.
I went and picked up this beauty. A 2008 CLS550. Believe me, despite the significant horsepower increase, I don't drive this beast more than 60. Plus it saves gas
Last edited by KElerby; Feb 16, 2012 at 01:31 PM. Reason: Title mispelling...
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 8
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2007 MERCEDES CLS 550 AMG
I never understood how you can fall asleep at the wheel.... Thank god you are okay. I agree German cars are by far the safest cars on the road!!! It's not just looks and options you pay for in these type of vehicles, it's also safety.
Congrats on your new purchase. Stay awake!!!
Congrats on your new purchase. Stay awake!!!
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
2009 CLS 550
Great story. Thanks for sharing. I also have to comment on the fact that you took full responsibility for you actions - my biggest pet peeve is (especially younger) Americans not doing so.
Best wishes with your car and your business!
Best wishes with your car and your business!
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Chicago
CLS 550
Thanks for your comments. I really just wanted to share the amazing build quality of Mercedes. I've never really taken into consideration the safety aspects of a vehicle, but I think its something everyone should know about and consider.
Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 161
Likes: 1
From: Endicott NY
2014 ML350 Bluetec, 2016 GLC 300, 2023 Corvette, Z51 Stingray
Thanks for sharing your story. Glad to hear you were not seriously hurt. The photos are a testimony to what a MB can withstand thus allowing you to basically walk away without a scratcht. I am on my second ML 350 and will be getting a CLS next spring. Be safe
Mark
Mark
