The value of training

[gsxbarmy]

Last Weekend a group of us went out for a leisurely ride down some country lanes, objective being to get to the coast have some fish and chips and then country lane it back - about a 220 mile round trip.

All started well, we had decent pace but kept to speed limits, but as to be expected with any group we got spaced out over a couple of miles (which is no worry as we use the cornerman system).

Not far from our destination, approaching a corner, I see bikes slowing rapidly and stopping. Upon reaching the corner, there is a bike on its side in the middle of the road, rider nowhere to be seen. Having done the Biker Down training recently, the lessons learnt kicked into action - bike parked in front of the accident, quickly assess scene for dangers, locate rider - found lying in a ditch half under a hedge, not moving.

Checked that others were calling emergency services, assessed the rider - conscious not moving, pain down one side. Helmet removed, and kept still whilst we awaited the emergency services. Remains of bike moved to side of road, others directing traffic around the scene and warning oncoming motorists.

The point of this thread - knowing what to do and how to do it safely at the scene of an accident. Was I ever grateful that I had done Biker Diwn training, so knew exactly what to do, how to remove a helmet from an injured rider, etc. Something I had hoped never ever to use, but given the situation, so glad I had.

End result positive, police attended and assessed scene, ambulance / doctor to assess the rider and take off to hospital for a check up (fortunately only 2 bruised/cracked ribs). Bike recovered successfully.

If anyone on this forum in the U.K. has ever thought about the Biker Down training but not done it, then I can seriously say it's extremely worthwhile, as knowing how to act and prioritise at a scene and not panic is worth it's weight in gold. It only takes a couple of hours one evening to do. It's typically run by county emergency services, so you would need to google for courses close to you, but here's a couple of starters   http://www.kent.fire-uk.org/your-safety/road-safety/road-safety-for-bikers/ And
http://www.roadwise.co.uk/bikerdown/

What made this different for me was the Biker who was down - who happened to be one of my best mates who I go out riding with a lot. Brings it home big time when it's that close to you and knowing how to act can make all the difference.

I'd also recommend the "Green Dot" - it's free but tells the emergency services of any medical conditions you may have in the event that you are unconcious - http://www.thinksaferroads.org.uk/motorcycle-crash-cards/ as it indicates you have a card in your lid listing same and contacts.

[KiwiCol]

Thanks Dave, sobering & I'm not even drinking.

[Sweaty]

Well done Dave & great advise 

[Notty]

Well done Dave - already looking to book a course 

[Kiwifruit]

Good heads up Dave
We can do a similar course here.....and i probably should.

[Buddynq]

Great Idea
Here is some info for Aussies

http://www.firstaidformotorcyclists.com.au/