With all the technology, one would think that wouldn't happen. When the needle strikes a firm surface, such as a pin or presser foot, (my straight stitch foot has needle marks in it too) the needle should break, eliminating the stress on the shaft. It should be a safety thing, like a fuse in an electrical circuit. I guess this is why so many of us like the vintage machines. They are work horses, make nice, straight stitches, and have sturdy shafts. I'm bummed for you that that happened. Thanks for warning the rest of us.