Elderly motorbike rider goes over handlebars after crash with friend in Shropshire
An elderly motorcycle rider was taken to hospital after a crash with a friend he out riding with in Shropshire sent him over his handlebars.
The man, believed to be in his 70s, was injured in the accident between two Harley Davidsons on the A49 just north of Hadnall, near the junction of Painsbrook Lane.
Two ambulances were sent to the scene just before 2pm yesterday.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "The two friends were riding big 'touring' type bikes when they collided as they waited for a car to turn. Unfortunately, the rider in front was sent over his handlebars by the force of the collision.
"The man, who approximately 70 years old, suffered a serious back injury and a fractured rib along with an abrasion to his forehead.
"He initially received care from two off-duty nurses who came across the incident. The ambulance crew paid tribute to the care they were providing when they arrived.
"The man was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for further treatment.
"The second rider, who was estimated to be in his 50s, suffered only a minor graze to his knee and was discharged at the scene."
Last month, the A49 trunk road was named the county's most dangerous route, with a third of fatal accidents taking place there over a three-year period.
