A NEW advice card to help save the lives of motorcyclists who have crashed has been launched.

Often when bikers crash they are unable to talk coherently so gaining their details can be impossible.

The new CRASH card, which also gives handy advice in the form of an acronym – Crash, Road, Accident, Serious, Help – are being handed out to riders across the county.

At the launch, which took place in the grounds of Knebworth House, the East of England Ambulance Service was joined by firefighters and police.

Paramedic Ian Burrell, who is chairman of the Ambulance Motorcycle Club, said: “This card is borne out of experience – it has been designed by serving paramedics who have been on both sides of an accident as the injured rider or attending as medical help.

“If a biker is injured and unable to talk coherently because of concussion or having been knocked out, how does the ambulance crew find out who the patient is, what medication they take, or medical history?”

“What information does the 999 call centre need?”

Mr Burrell added: “So far, the card has enjoyed a very successful pilot in Essex, and is gaining a national interest as more bikers spread the word about this simple but effective approach to casualty reduction.”

If you are a biker you can request a CRASH card by calling 01992 556800 or email herts.biker@hertscc.gov.uk