Ontario roads can be a hazardous place for bicyclists - with or without vehicles.

When you witness an accident involving a cyclist:

• Ensure the injured cyclist is safe;
• Barricade the area (with your bike if necessary). If needed, send people up and down the road to warn other approaching road users that the road is obstructed;
• If there is a possibility of a neck or spinal injury, DO NOT MOVE THEM and call 911;
• If conscious, and there is no risk of a neck or spinal injury - carefully remove their helmet, and do a visual helmet check;
• Look for evidence that the helmet has hit the ground (scratches or gravel impregnations) on the outside, and cracks in the foam on the inside;
• If you think there is a chance of a concussion or other injury; DO NOT let the injured party make decisions for themselves, call 911. It is better to be safe than sorry;
• They may be in shock and despite what they may say and do - they are simply not capable of making either accurate assessments or decisions with regard to their own health. The standard - "I am ok" should NOT be listened to;
• It is incumbent on the Group Leader and/or people around them, to step in, take charge and call 911 if they deem it to be necessary; 
• If an ambulance is called (and there was a hit to the head), ensure the helmet goes to the hospital with the injured party, to alert emergency room staff of their possible/probable head trauma;
• It is usually a good idea to go to the hospital after an accident as a precaution, especially if you hit your head. Regardless, it is important to follow up with your family doctor or a walk-in clinic afterwards.

If a vehicle, or any non-KNBC members, are involved:

Obtain identifying information of the others involved (e.g. take a picture of):

• the other person’s identification (eg. Name, address & phone number, driver’s license);
• the name of their insurance company;
• motor vehicle registration and license plate number.

Report the incident to the KNBC Safety Committee:

Please report all incidents that occur on a ride to the KNBC Safety Committee by email to incident-report@knbc.ca using the Incident Report. The form is very comprehensive, but please include:

• A description of the event – what happened to cause the incident;
• Who was involved. Include contact information for any non-KNBC members involved;
• A description of any injuries, damage or other consequences;
• What was done after the incident occurred, how it was handled;
• Police report information, if police were called or a report filed;
• Any other information you feel is relevant.

Report the accident to the police:

• Everyone involved in a motor vehicle accident that causes more than $1,000 in damage has an obligation to report it to the police;
• Police, will usually come to the scene of the accident, interview witnesses, and may issue a ticket to the person who caused the accident;
• The police investigation will hopefully preserve information about how the accident happened.

Accident Caused By a Road Hazard:

If the accident was a result of a road hazard, or unsafe road surface conditions, notify the city.