Mark Knopfler broke six ribs and a collarbone in a motorcycle accident on March 17 in London, according to Billboard.com:

The former Dire Straits frontman was on his way to conduct rehearsals for his upcoming tour when he was knocked from his Honda as it collided with a Fiat Punto in Belgravia, central London.

A spokesperson for St. Thomas's hospital said the 53-year-old musician was treated for his injuries and discharged last night. The female driver of the Fiat was reported to be unhurt.

The accident will prevent Knopfler from co-headlining a charity concert next week with Eric Clapton. according to a statement from Mercury Records, Knopfler's U.K. label. The March 25 show at London's Royal Albert Hall to benefit the Teenage Cancer Trust will go on with Clapton, Nigel Kennedy, and others performing "The Jam Sessions."

Obviously, we hope he gets well soon. Whether on his own, or with Dire Straits, Knopfler has written--not to mention played--some great music.

(Link found via The Les Paul Guitar Forum.)