CRASH card could save your life
A card containing vital information which could prove crucial if a motorcyclist is involved in a collision has been launched in Gloucestershire.
The CRASH card is the size of a credit card and fits inside the crash helmet. It provides personal details to help ambulance crews if the motorcyclist is injured in a road traffic collision, saving valuable time and helping treatment, especially if the rider is either unconscious or unable to communicate.
The card comes with a self-adhesive green dot which is stuck onto the helmet to alert paramedics to look for the card to check the motorcyclist’s medical history. 
Chris Harrison, Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership’s (GRSP) Motorcycle Coordinator, said: “The CRASH card is designed to save precious time in the minutes following a serious collision and improve the medical care received at the roadside. 
“All bikers are encouraged to carry the card, which also gives helpful advice if a rider comes across a road traffic collision so that they can relay important information when dialling 999.”
Dr Ossie Rawstorne, Great Western Ambulance Service Medical Director and Chief Operating Officer, said: “From an ambulance service perspective, CRASH cards are potential lifesavers as they could contain vital information about the individual’s medical history. This could prove crucial if the wearer is unconscious following an accident. 
“For ambulance clinicians treating a motorcyclist on scene, having immediate access to details about existing medical conditions could be the difference between life and death.”
The card was launched at the Biker’s Nite at the Lower Lode Inn in Forthampton on Wednesday, 1st June
PC Simon Ross from Gloucestershire Constabulary, said: “Carrying the card within your helmet and affixing the green dot to the right hand side of it gives immediate medical information for the attending paramedics and medical teams, as well as providing the Police with information about the identity of the wearer. 
“The card is designed for all sizes of powered two wheelers, mopeds to superbikes and cruisers to tourers, and for all motorcycle journeys. The scheme is for both riders and pillions."
Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, Cabinet Member with responsibility for road safety, said: “Our latest casualty and collision figures showed that proportionally more motorcyclists than car drivers are killed or seriously injured on Gloucestershire’s roads.
“This scheme is an excellent way of ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, which could make a life-saving difference in a collision.”
The cards are available to order at www.roadsafety-gloucestershire.org.uk/motorcycling and can be picked up at motorcycling events throughout Gloucestershire through the summer.