What to do after a Motorcycle Crash

The IAM, the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, this week gave this good advice to motorcyclists on what to do after a crash.

We thought we’d share it, because it’s good simple advice that’s relevant to Australian riders (and drivers) as well.

When the emotions and adrenalin are running high after an incident, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget the basics.

• Firstly, ensure you and your passengers are not severely injured, and if you can, move to a safe position.
• If that’s too difficult, have someone warn oncoming traffic.
• If anyone has sustained serious injuries call for an ambulance straight away.
• A first aid course is a real benefit. The basics are breathing first then bleeding - if your casualty is breathing don’t remove their helmet because they may have a neck injury. Reassurance is an important part so let them know help is on the way and keep on talking to them.
• Where everyone is safe and third parties are involved you will need to exchange contact and licence details.
• Taking some pictures of the positions of vehicles involved and any damage caused can be useful. If possible get details of any witnesses or emergency services at the scene.

Above all, stay calm. Although it’s tempting, getting involved in “heated discussions” won’t help the situation.

Richard Gladman, Head of Driving and Riding Standards at the IAM, says: “Be mindful of moving traffic around you and make sure you try and move away from busy roads where possible.”

“Being prepared for the worst case scenario is important – and by taking these simple precautions you can make things far easier and a lot less stressful afterwards.”