Crashes occur during ride to promote motorcycle safety

Something unexpected happened during the Women in Motion Riding for a Cause ride recently. The group, which participates in a three-day, four-night ride to promote emergency response technique and safety issues for people who ride motorcycles, saw some motorcycle accidents during the event. That's apparently the first time that's happened in the group's 11-year history.

According to the Portage Daily Register, there were about 100 female motorcyclists participating in the ride in Columbia County late last week. There were apparently various fundraisers to educate people about motorcycle accident injuries, and how people should respond in such crashes.

The first crash apparently occurred when the group was on its way to lunch in Fort Winnebago. It occurred on Highway U and apparently involved three to four motorcycles. The second crash occurred up the road after motorcyclists had slowed down for the first accident, causing one motorcyclists to lose control and crash.

One woman was taken by ambulance to Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage. Several other motorcyclists sustained minor injuries but did not need to be hospitalized.

Many motorcyclists enjoy riding along Highway U because of the lush scenery and flowing hills. However, the hills can be apparently dangerous for riders who do not know the area. According to the program director, motorcyclists who are educated and trained can assist the EMTs responding at an accident, increasing their safety.

The ride began on Thursday of last week with a party in Madison and was scheduled to conclude with a bike wash in Mauston.

Source: Portage Daily Register, "Motorcyclists get chance to put skills to work during safety ride," Lyn Jerde and Jen McCoy, 15 July 2011