San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has admitted he caused a two-car collision on July 14, an accident that led to multiple injuries and has limited his involvement in the team's training camp. Shanahan clarified to reporters that a clerical error in the California Highway Patrol database had initially misattributed fault.
Shanahan stated that he took his eyes off the road to find his phone, which had fallen between the seats. Upon looking back up, he had veered over the lane line and collided with an SUV. He was in violation of laws regarding holding and operating a cell phone while driving but was not cited.
According to Shanahan, he did not lose consciousness or experience amnesia following the crash, and he was traveling at approximately 20 mph. The other driver involved in the accident reportedly sustained no injuries.
Shanahan, however, suffered broken ribs, a broken nose, and a fractured hand, in addition to a severe concussion. He also required approximately 40 stitches to close facial lacerations. Chris Simms, a close friend of Shanahan and analyst for "PFT Live," revealed that the 49ers coach was "this close" to losing his right eye, having seen graphic images of the injuries sent by Shanahan's wife. Simms described the injuries as "jarring" and noted that Shanahan was emotional, processing the severity of the situation and the potential for a much worse outcome.
General Manager John Lynch indicated that Shanahan is in concussion protocol, and Simms suggested that the coach is experiencing ongoing issues as part of his recovery. Assistant head coach Chris Foerster is currently handling Shanahan's duties during his limited capacity at training camp.
The 49ers are scheduled to open their season against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10, in the inaugural game to be played in Australia.