RICHMOND, Va., April 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Richmond Ambulance
Authority (RAA) and Bon Secours Virginia Health System, in
partnership with Motorcycle Virginia, Inc., today launched a new
program designed to save the lives of injured motorcyclists. The
program provides free identification data cards that will help
first responders provide rapid and accurate medical assistance to
riders involved in accidents.  

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110414/PH82953
)

The data cards, officially known as Rider Alert cards (www.RiderAlert.org), are
placed inside riders’ helmets and contain vital, life-saving
information, emergency contact and any important medical history.
When first responders arrive on the scene of a motorcycle accident,
a one-inch, round sticker on the outside of the helmet will
indicate that the biker has the Rider Alert card. The sticker also
warns bystanders not to remove the helmet, which could prevent
further injury.

In developing the Rider Alert card, RAA engaged both bikers and
first responders, to determine the most effective way to provide
rider emergency contact and medical information.

“Motorcycle accidents and fatalities are on the rise in
Virginia,” said Rob Lawrence, chief operating officer of Richmond
Ambulance Authority. “This card is born out of experience –
it has been designed by paramedics who have been on both sides of
an accident as the injured rider or as medical help. Accessing this
basic information after a motorcycle accident can sometimes be
impossible. This small tool could mean the difference between life
and death.”

“We are so pleased to be involved with such an innovative
program,” said Toni Ardabell, CEO Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital.”
“This truly is a program that can provide critical information,
allowing first responders to give injured cyclists the best
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