First aid for cyclists: Would you know what to do in an accident?

It’s every cyclist’s nightmare: someone in your group has crashed and it looks serious. How do you provide urgent, potentially life-saving assistance?

Cyclist with knee injury awaits first aid
(Image credit: Getty)

Would you know what to do if you were out riding and a ride mate crashed heavily or suddenly fell ill? It’s a scenario we all hope we’ll never confront, but cycling involves speed, open roads and hazards, and puts strain on the body’s cardiovascular system, so it will never be without danger. Even so, a little preparation can make a big difference. 

Danish footballer Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest while playing in the Euro 2020 tournament this summer was a stark reminder of how a first responder’s actions can be the difference between life and death. It’s arguably even more important among us cyclists, as we’re often in remote locations miles away from professional emergency help. 

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