Support Paddle Cape Cod & Ben after a Devastating Accident

On Wednesday, June 12, my girlfriend and I were involved in a serious car accident. My business vehicle, a Jeep, and trailer were involved in a collision with another vehicle, an Audi. According to witness accounts and the police officers on scene, I was not at fault because the Audi blew past a stop sign causing a moderate-speed collision despite my efforts to take evasive action. Both vehicles suffered significant damage, including airbag deployment. Fortunately, no one required hospitalization, but my girlfriend and I are certainly feeling the effects in the days since.

My business vehicle is totaled, the trailer is damaged, and several pieces of rental equipment were impacted. Additionally, several of my personal effects were damaged. This has been an extremely terrifying and painful experience, and while I'm trying to stay positive and remember that tangible items are replaceable, the impact on my business has been severe.

Since the accident, I have been without a delivery vehicle and trailer, making it nearly impossible to conduct business. I am also unable to lead tours in my current physical state. For those concerned about my well-being, I am going to urgent care today, June 20th, to get checked out.

The financial impact of this incident is significant. As a young entrepreneur, I had a loan of over $20,000 on my business vehicle. While I await official word from insurance, it seems likely that the Jeep is totaled and will need to be replaced. I am hoping there is enough equity to cover my debt, but because I am right at the beginning of my season, I’ve made significant investments in our expansion, and I do not have the means to put a down payment on another vehicle or afford a long-term rental out-of-pocket until insurance settles.

I have been extremely proud to build Paddle Cape Cod from just five kayaks out of my home. However, I was once given advice that when in need, it is important to lean on those who care about you. So, I am humbly asking for your help. I have set up a GoFundMe to cover costs associated with this accident. Any contribution to help me secure a rental vehicle immediately and put a down payment on a new delivery vehicle would be immensely appreciated. If you do donate, I will send you a certificate valid for TWO (2) ALL-DAY rentals of your choice the next time you visit our NEW outfitter on Flax Pond, Nickerson State Park (value $130). Turning lemons into lemonade, I feel this is a small way I can thank my loyal customers for their support. Please email me to claim your certificate.

If you cannot donate but plan to visit the Cape this summer, please consider booking a reservation with us NOW. We are accepting reservations for rentals, tours, lessons, programs, and more. Despite this hardship, I am resilient and resourceful and will make sure that my small business continues to provide all of our services and offerings as soon as possible; that our customer service remains exemplary, our equipment quality, and our attention to detail and commitment to sharing fun, exciting, and most importantly safe adventures on the water foremost.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for your continued support. Your generosity and kindness mean the world to me during this challenging time.

We can’t wait to see you out on the water for our best season yet!

Your Paddle Buddy,

Ben, Owner of Paddle Cape Cod MA, LLC

Funds will be used to support the bounce back of Paddle Cape Cod MA, LLC. Delivery vehicle downpayment mainly. Thank you.