Riderman mass crash: What happened?
There were two mass crashes at the RiderMan Bad Dürrheim on Sunday at around 11.30 a.m., resulting in a number of injuries. In the section of the K5705 between Bad Dürrheim and Biesingen, there was a first mass crash in the area of a slight left-hand bend. According to the official police report, the accident "caused a build-up in the course of the race, which triggered another mass crash." Both incidents triggered a large-scale operation (mass casualty incident) by the rescue services: There were four rescue helicopters and a large number of ambulances on site, led by a senior emergency doctor. "A total of 38 people were taken to neighbouring hospitals for further treatment, 20 of whom suffered moderate and 18 minor injuries. As things stand, there are no serious injuries," according to a statement from the organisers. The race was later cancelled due to the accidents.
Why was the fall so bad?
The crash happened on a gentle descent. According to the participants, they were travelling at 60 to 70 km/h. The group was travelling close together and in the middle of the road. The swerving caused a chain reaction. There was actually enough distance to the following starting blocks. A very large gap can be seen in the livestream. According to the police report, however, there were still accidents caused by following drivers. This is not evident from the livestream - the second camera behind the crash provides no evidence of this.
Riderman mass crash: what caused it?
In the video of the live stream, you can see that a rider crashes in the middle of the group. Fractions of a second later, riders on the left are pushed to the kerb and an uncontrollable chain reaction begins in the centre. The front group of around 50 riders gets through unscathed.
Riderman mass crash: did the organiser allow too many starters?
Although there was a record turnout with over 1200 participants, the crash happened at the front of the field. The leading group of the first starting block was separated from the back of the field. Around 100 to 200 participants rode on a very wide, closed-off road that was easy to see. The crash happened in the centre of the group.
Riderman mass crash: what speculation is there?
Riderman organiser Rik Sauser explained that there was a rumour that a burst tyre had caused the first crash.
Did the rescue chain work?
All reports indicate that the rescue of the casualties was carried out very professionally. The injured participants were quickly classified according to the severity of their injuries and the more seriously injured were prioritised for treatment. The number of four helicopters and numerous ambulances also emphasises the professional assistance provided.
Riderman mass crash: why did the front runners continue?
Stephan Kirchmaier, who was riding at the front, explained in an interview that he and others had not noticed the crash. Rumours only spread much later. When the race director told him from the car that the race had been stopped, many others did not realise it at first. Even the commentators in the live coverage were initially unable to assess how bad the crash was.
Riderman mass crash: what the organiser says
"Unfortunately, crashes and a certain amount of risk are part and parcel of cycling. We are pleased that, according to the information we have so far, there are at least no serious injuries and wish all those involved in the accident a speedy and, above all, full recovery," said Riderman Race director Rik Sauser.
Riderman mass crash: what an accident victim says
"As someone who was directly affected and is now in hospital, I would like to express my thanks to the rescue workers and organisers. We were well looked after from the very first second and distributed to the neighbouring hospitals after the injury was serious. My bike and starter bag were handed over to my friends without any red tape. My mum, as the emergency contact, was informed immediately about my state of health. Many thanks for this service in such an unfortunate situation. Get well soon from me to all the injured!"
(Niklas Heiberger on Instagram)
Kristian Bauer
Editor
