Released: July 14, 2010

Contact:
Margo O’Hara, Active Transportation Alliance
312.427.3325 x 224
312.282.5088 mobile
margo@activetrans.org

Bicyclists and pedestrians find support with Crash Hotline and Crash Support Group

Pedestrians and bicyclists who have suffered a crash now have a support system ready for any emotional, legal or logistic help.

A Crash Support Hotline – 312.869.HELP (4357) – and a monthly Crash Support Group are part of the Active Transportation Alliance’s effort to support bicyclists and pedestrians who have been in a crash.

The hotline does not replace 911 and Active Trans encourages people to call 911 any time they are in a crash. Trained volunteers will get back to callers within 24 hours with attorney referrals and any advice they need following the crash.

“Crashes are an unfortunate reality on our streets,” said Melody Geraci, interim executive director at the Active Transportation Alliance, Chicagoland’s voice for better biking, walking and transit. “And when they do happen, there are a lot of questions: what are my rights? Do I need a police report? When will I feel comfortable riding again? We are ready to lend that support.”

Active Trans also provides a monthly Crash Support Group meeting, another option offered to process a crash. The meeting is free, confidential, and is facilitated by a trained professional. These meetings are held every fourth Wednesday of the month. The next Crash Support Group meeting is July 28, 2010. RSVP by emailing crashsupport@activetrans.org.

Anyone can visit the online Crash Support Resource at www.activetrans.org/crashsupport to find information about what to do after a crash. Information about bicyclists’ and pedestrians’ rights is also available.

The Active Transportation Alliance is a non-profit, member-based advocacy organization that works to make bicycling, walking and public transit so safe, convenient and fun that we will achieve a significant shift from environmentally harmful, sedentary travel to clean, active travel. The organization builds a movement around active transportation, encourages physical activity, increases safety and builds a world-class transportation network. Formerly the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation, the Active Transportation Alliance is North America’s largest transportation advocacy organization, supported by more than 6,000 members, 1,000 volunteers and 35 full-time staff. For more information on the Active Transportation Alliance, visit www.activetrans.org or call 312.427.3325.

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