Road Captains Meeting
You should arrive at your starting point at least 30 minutes before the ride’s departure time to meet with the other Road Captains and to select your sweep rider. If the ride is over 20 bikes you will normally split the group and select a Road Captain to lead the second group. The route is handed out to all Road Captains at this time so they can study it. Use the briefing checklist to brief the Road Captains, as this prevents forgetting important items.
Riders Meeting
A briefing should be given to all riders before the ride at a Riders’ Meeting. During the briefing you will introduce yourself and all the other Road Captains on the ride. Hand out the route sheet at this time. As you brief the route, point out any problem areas the group might encounter. Find out if there is anyone riding who is not a member or is a minor and have them sign a release form. The other Road Captains can help with this. You may want to see if you have any new riders in the group and have them ride toward the rear. Any riders who will be dropping out while enroute should ride at the rear of the formation.
Use our Pre-Ride Briefing Guide to review our group riding guidelines and how we ride in a staggered formation. Demonstrate the hand signals, and pass out copies of the Riding Guidelines and hand signals. Remind the riders we will use radios between the lead and sweep riders and to stay off the channel except for necessary communications. If radios are not available, then hand signals will be used. Review any other pertinent information and take questions.
Breakdowns
In case of a breakdown the sweep rider is designated to stop and assist. The sweep rider will have a cell phone and will be able to assist in fixing the bike, or call for assistance. It is recommended that all riders carry a cell phone and the chapter list of cell phone numbers.
Accidents
In the event of an accident those behind the accident will stop if possible and render aid. First aid and safety are the immediate concerns. The sweep rider will notify the ride leader by radio. One (or more) person(s) will direct traffic around the accident scene. There are many variables the ride leader will consider to determine whether the whole group stops, just the sweep, or how many riders for assistance. The accident report should be completed, after any injuries are treated. It is recommended that riders carry a cell phone and the chapter list of cell phone numbers. Remember that 9-1-1 may be available over cellular phone service in the event of a serious injury and *FHP reaches the Florida Highway Patrol to report dangerous road conditions. The sweep rider should carry the chapter’s first aid kit and accident form.