There’s Been a Crash in Your Group. Now What?
Crashes happen. Most are minor. A clear head and a simple sequence make a bad moment
much better for everyone — especially the rider on the ground.
1. Stop the group safely. Get everyone off the road and out of traffic. Move bikes clear
of the carriageway.
2. Assess the casualty. Are they conscious? Breathing normally? Any obvious serious
injury — head impact, heavy bleeding, suspected fracture, unable to move a limb?
Ask what hurts before they try to stand.
3. Delegate roles. Two riders stay with the casualty — ideally someone with first aid
training, otherwise the calmest person, plus one for logistics and reassurance. One
or two manage traffic further up the road if needed. Everyone else gives space and
stays back.
4. Call 999 for anything serious: head impact, loss of consciousness (even briefly),
suspected fracture, heavy bleeding, or if the rider can’t walk.
5. Arrange a taxi if needed. Tell the rider to keep the receipt — the club will reimburse.
6. Offer the basics. Water, food, a spare layer, a blanket to lie on. Shock sets in fast, even in mild
weather.
7. Report the incident to [email protected] as soon as you’re able. This
lets the club log it with British Cycling and learn from what happened.
A note on responsibilities.
Every rider is responsible for their own safety. This means making sensible decisions for
themselves and for the group.
All riders are EQUALLY responsible for the group. The ride leader is not your parent!