In a candid revelation during a recent episode of his ‘Armchair Expert’ podcast, Dax Shepard opened up about a harrowing car accident he experienced as a teenager, an incident that continues to shape his life even years later. This discussion emerged while he, alongside co-host Monica Padman and guest Kaley Cuoco, delved into the theme of near-death experiences—a topic that sparked profound personal reflections and shared insights.
A Moment of Realisation
While conversing with Cuoco, who expressed curiosity about the experiences of those who have faced death, Shepard took the opportunity to recount his own brush with mortality. “I don’t know what the definition is, but I’ve had the moment, which is among the most unique feelings I’ve ever had in my life, where I went, ‘Oh, I’m about to die. I’m like seconds away from dying,’” he revealed, setting the stage for a gripping tale.
Shepard shared the details of that fateful day when he was travelling with friends in a Ford Probe, returning from Toledo to Detroit. He had chosen to lie down in the back seat, comfortable and unaware, while his friend manned the wheel with the cruise control set to a staggering 85 mph. The tranquillity was shattered as he was jolted awake to the sound of gravel crashing against the vehicle, only to find his friend slumped over the steering wheel.
A Terrifying Experience
As the car veered off course, Shepard’s instincts kicked in. “I started to grab the wheel, and there was a moment I just knew it was too far gone,” he recounted. The vehicle spun wildly before launching into the air, rolling multiple times down the highway. “I was waiting to hit a tree,” he reflected, describing the surreal moment as “comforting” despite the impending doom.
Incredibly, the duo emerged from the wreckage unscathed, with Shepard noting, “We crawled out the windows … He was OK, and I was OK.” However, the psychological impact lingered, as he found himself questioning his own existence in the days that followed.
A Lasting Impact
The incident left an indelible mark on Shepard’s psyche. He admitted, “This may shock you, but I’ve never been able to fall asleep in a car ever since. There’s no way I could sleep with someone else driving.” His experience underscores the lingering effects of trauma, illustrating how a single moment can reverberate throughout a lifetime.
The conversation not only highlighted Shepard’s personal journey but also sparked dialogue on the broader implications of such near-death experiences, offering insights into how they can reshape one’s relationship with life, risk, and trust.
Why it Matters
Shepard’s account serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact that traumatic experiences can have on an individual. In a world where the pace of life often distracts us from our vulnerabilities, his story encourages reflection on our own experiences and the ways in which they shape our perspectives. The candid nature of such discussions not only fosters understanding but also builds a sense of community among those who have faced similar trials, driving home the message that we are not alone in our struggles.
