On a recent bunch ride that I was on there was an accident. The accident was a reasonably simple event, the outcome wasn't. The result of the fall left a rider injured, in considerable pain and, after quite a lengthy wait, a ride in an ambulance.

It got me thinking, we all ride, and from time to time we all crash.

So when the inevitable happens:

• Do you have the basic skills to be able to assist?
• Do you have first aid skills?
• What is the best thing that you can do to help?
• Do you know what to do?

In this case some members of the party who knew what to do and were able to assist and comfort. Also a couple in a passing car stopped to help and as luck would have it they had a pillow and duvet in the car and so were able to make the fallen rider more comfortable. They stayed for the duration of the wait for the ambulance and were only too happy to help.

What I realised is that I carry no real identification when I'm riding. Even when you're in a bunch, who knows the emergency contact details for you? It's worthwhile getting a small card made up and laminated with those numbers on it, also consider a piece of tape inside your helmet with your name and a number or two. It may save your life.

Lastly, with the holidays upon us, many of us are going to be riding in areas away from home, make sure that someone knows your riding plan and route, that you have id, a mobile and some cash (remember mobiles don't work everywhere) and ride with consideration for yourself and other road users.

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