Mythbusters Prove that Accidents Can Happen Even to Experts

COMMENTARY | No doubt on the advice of their legal counsel, the Mythbusters air a PSA on their popular show in which they say, "Don't try this at home. We are what you call experts." But even experts can have accidents.

According to KTUV TV, a myth was being explored by firing a cannon ball at the Alameda bomb range. The cannon ball took an unexpected skip over a safety berm which sent it into a nearby neighborhood, through a private home, and into a nearby parked minivan. No one was harmed, but the homeowner was understandably perturbed.

One of the fun aspects of watching "Mythbusters" is watching the cast blow things up and shoot off all kinds of ordinance, generally having a great time doing it. The show is very explicit about the lengths that are taken to ensure the safety of everyone around for the effects of the explosions and general mayhem that is created while busting myths.

The "Mythbusters" accident does demonstrate that despite every precaution, mishaps can happen. That is one reason why the show and its participants are heavily insured and have a legal staff to deal with the unexpected.

One expects that the Discovery Channel will work diligently and quickly to make the homeowner whole, repairing the damage to the house and repairing or replacing the minivan. There will no doubt also be apologies all around from everyone concerned.

It is hoped that the homeowner in question is not going to do the typical American thing and resort to litigation for "emotional trauma." That would just be cheap. It is also hoped that the Mythbusters will not be forced to scale back the spectacular nature of some of their myths. Huge explosions make great television, after all, and one minor mishap should not ruin it for now on.

Besides, getting shot at by the Mythbusters is something that could be dined out upon forever. The cannon ball could be found, signed by those who fired it off, and then sold on Ebay for a lot of money. The outraged homeowner could come out considerably ahead if he exercises a little creativity.