Post-Bike Crash Safety and Self-Assessment Guidelines
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, it's crucial to know the steps to take after a bike crash. This guide will help you assess injuries and ensure safety, based on personal experiences and expert advice.
Assessing Your Condition After a Crash
One of the first things you should do after a bike crash is to assess your physical condition. Most likely, you'll experience pain or discomfort, and it's important to inspect and clean any injuries to prevent infection. Consider using common household remedies like hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds. Make sure to check for signs of a concussion, as even minor impacts can cause this serious condition. Pay attention to your body for any possible broken bones or other injuries.
In my experience, over 27 years of cycling with over 35 years without needing hospital treatment, I've had five significant crashes that required medical attention. The first was a collision with an unmarked road work excavation at night, resulting in two broken vertebrae. The second was being knocked over by a cyclist who didn't signal a left turn, causing a broken clavicle and a bent rib. The third was a hit by a car while the driver was not paying attention to their turn, leading to a broken elbow. The fourth involved hitting a curb in a dark tunnel, breaking an ankle. The fifth resulted in a whiplash injury, two broken fingers, and rib fractures, with double vision persisting for half an hour.
From these experiences, I've learned several valuable lessons. The unexpected can happen quickly, especially when other people pose a potential danger. Hanging a bag on the handlebars is a risk, as it can easily come into contact with the front wheel. Cycling in busy urban areas can be challenging, and it's important to clearly show and signal your intentions to avoid accidents.
Immediate Actions After a Crash
One crucial step is to dismount from the bicycle and assess your situation. This is particularly important if you’re on a busy road. Once you're off the road, check yourself for visible injuries and symptoms of a concussion. If you suspect any broken bones or if the pain is significant, seek medical attention immediately.
In my second crash, which was entirely my fault, I had to get off the road as quickly as possible. In the case of the second crash, I ended up in a grass field. The next important step is self-assessment. If you feel capable of moving, prioritize getting to a safe area. If you had food in your possession, like a sandwich, eat it to provide your body with the energy needed to move. If someone offers to help, it's important to quickly assess if they can assist without putting themselves or others at risk. In situations where passing out or shock is a possibility, act promptly and get to a safe place.
Another vital lesson is the importance of having a cell phone with you. In both crashes where I experienced whiplash and other injuries, having a phone was crucial for contacting emergency services or arranging transportation home. Additionally, wearing a helmet can save you from serious head injuries. In one instance, my helmet saved me from a significant injury after a fall, as it prevented a more severe impact to my head. Yet, even with a helmet, the foam inside the helmet had turned into a pile of tiny plastic beads, indicating how critical it can be to wear a helmet properly.
Conclusion
In summary, after a bike crash, the most important steps are to get off the road immediately, assess your condition, and move to a safe area. Always have a cell phone with you and make sure to wear a properly fitted helmet. By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of further injury and ensure a safer cycling experience.
Bicycle safety is a crucial aspect of cycling, and being prepared for the unexpected can make a significant difference in your overall riding experience. Stay safe and enjoy your rides!