A.B.A.T.E.
of IOWA
A Brotherhood Aimed Towards Education
Education
Two-Wheel Trauma
“A concept to save lives”
The Two-Wheel Trauma concept was fashioned in early 1986 by three experienced EMS providers in rural Spencer, Iowa. Career paramedics Anita J. Bailey and Frank Prowant joined Slider Gilmore, a lifelong motorcyclist, and volunteer EMT, to develop the Two Wheel Trauma program.
The program’s sole purpose is to reduce the morbidity and mortality of motorcycle crashes through prevention and education. The three components are Rider Responsibilities, Accident Scene Management, and Two-Wheel Trauma continuing education for EMS providers.
Wayne Wierson, former A.B.A.T.E. of Iowa State Share the Road Coordinator, joined as faculty in 2005, presenting Share the Road at every Two-Wheel Trauma course.
Rider Responsibilities
The Rider Responsibility portion supports the notion that the best approach is the prevention of two-wheel trauma through early, intense rider education. Protective garb and sobriety-on-wheels are discussed throughout both Accident Scene Management and Two-Wheel Trauma courses. When it comes to safety, lifelong learning translates into long lives.
Accident Scene Management
Because seconds count when a trauma emergency occurs, it is of critical importance that every motorcyclist learn basic life-saving techniques. Ambulances don’t save lives…people do! If those on the scene of a two-wheel crash fail to manage the airway or stop profuse bleeding, there may be nothing left for an EMT or trauma surgeon to work with. Slider Gilmore has trained thousands of bikers to manage the first few minutes of the two-wheel trauma crash event. His 44 years on motorcycles and 20 years as an EMT lend credibility unmatched by others.
The focus of the 3-hour course is “do-no-harm” first aid and psychological support. He recommends that local EMS and motorcyclists work together to abolish typical stereotypes and bring the communities together before a crash occurs.
Two-Wheel Trauma
This 5-6 hour continuing education program provides the healthcare worker with a heightened awareness of the kinematics and mechanism of injuries, environmental factors, and comprehensive assessment and treatment of the two-wheel trauma victim. Local motorcyclists bring their machines to display at the bike lab. The owner stays with the bike to answer questions and identify kill switches, fuel shut-offs, etc. Many graphic case studies illustrate the mechanisms that are exclusive to two-wheel trauma.
For additional information download the Two-Wheel Trauma Brochure below
or contact Two-Wheel Trauma Program Coordinator, Frank Prowant, Paramedic at twowheeltrauma@hotmail.com.