Basic First Aid Kit Checklist

Whether you are a recreational bike rider, a seasoned road cyclist, or a novice mountain biker, always take a first aid kit along with you on your rides. While you do whatever you can to stay safe when cycling, you never know when you or your buddies will have an accident and suffer some type of injury.

Start with the basics. You can pick up a basic kit at most drug stores that includes:

band-aids;
gauze;
butterfly closures;
tape; and
antibiotic or anti-septic ointment.

This is great for treating small cuts and abrasions. If you’re a road cyclist or go mountain biking in more treacherous terrain, add a few items to the basic kit to tend to the more serious injuries.

Road bikers might also want to consider carrying items such as:

wound dressings for road rash;
compression bandages;
burn cream;
sting-relief cream;
tweezers;
liquid stitches (if you can get your wound to stop bleeding, you can use a transparent dressing to seal it long enough to get you to the doctor’s office); and
foldable splints.

If you have room, you might also want to add basic over-the-counter remedies for any small ails you experience along the way, including anti-inflammatories, eye drops, antihistamines, pain medication, and antacids.

If you take medication, take an extra supply with you. For example, if you are asthmatic, bring an inhaler. If you require insulin, bring it with you. If you suffer from severe allergies, bring an EpiPen. If you have to take medication regularly, bring it with you in case you get stranded for a prolonged period.

Naturally, the best item to keep in your possession when biking in any type of territory is your cell phone. Should you or a friend become involved in a serious accident or collide with a vehicle, calling for help straightaway could save a life.

What to Do in Case of Severe Injuries

If someone is seriously injured in a bike accident and is unconscious, do not attempt to move him or her. Wait for help to arrive. If the person is conscious, try to keep him or her calm until the paramedics arrive at the scene to provide care and transport the person to the hospital.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a bicycle accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, you can file a claim and seek reparation for your damages. Consult a local attorney to determine your legal options and what damages may be compensable for you given the details of your case.

Bike Accident Victims in Arvada Can Get a Free Consult

According to the most recent data available from the US National Highway Safety Administration, the average age of a pedalcyclist killed in an accident is 41 years old. Thus, these suggestions are not just for young riders. Riders of all ages should consider safety precautions.

Arvada residents who suffered injury in a bicycle accident can get a free legal consultation with attorney D.J. Banovitz, himself a cyclist. Contact the office today for a no-obligation consultation to see how we may be of service to you: call us at 303-300-5060 or visit our contact page.