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Fear Levels
Most motorcyclists do experience some degree of fear while riding, at least some of the time. But after an accident the fear factor can become a true force with which to contend. Etta McQueary of California had a serious accident in January of 1999. She was on life support as a trauma patient and not expected to live. Etta was hit by a four-wheel vehicle on a twisty mountain curve. Etta now speaks publicly about her accident and her decision to ride again. At the time of her accident Etta had been riding her own bike on the street for about 10 months, though she had had years of experience riding off road in the desert. Etta says, "My fear is not completely gone but I ride anyway. After my accident my self-esteem was about a two. Now it's about an eight." When asked about what personality trait Etta believes contributes to her riding again, after a long thoughtful pause, she replied, "Perseverance...and a strong desire to overcome fear."

Etta McQueary is using her accident experience to inspire others through motivational speeches. Strong Support and Character
Etta also surrounded herself with an adequate support system that helped her to make the decision to ride again. One friend in particular, was very supportive. "I felt safe with him after the accident because I knew I could ride at my own pace." Vicky also had support from her husband after her accident, "My husband didn't pressure me. He understood it was my decision."
Vicky, Laurie and Etta all exhibit the strength of character needed to overcome such trauma. Psychologically, the decision to ride again has been life affirming for these women. Note the high number for self-esteem each woman gave after riding again. Of course, it's also O.K. to choose not to ride anymore. Among other things, this decision should revolve around how much of the individual's identity is tied in with being a motorcyclist. If riding is not that important to the person, it's not unreasonable to give up riding altogether.
Psychologically, though, something, like riding, may be a part of an individual's identity if it involves some or all of these qualities: that something plays a role in the individual's social life, married or romantic life, it gives that person a sense of feeling unique or special, it is a coping skill in that it causes pleasure, relaxation or a sense of freedom and, the individual invests time thinking and planning activities around this special something.
Learning from the Past
They say that hindsight is 20-20. So, when asked to think about the day of the accident and what, if anything, these women could have done differently, Vicky replied, "I guess I could have been more aware, instead of just staring at my husbands back. I always ride behind him. Now I'm always very aware of my surroundings."
Laurie responded, "Since then I've learned to ride my own ride. I feel I'm a better rider now because of this." Etta reasoned that, "On the day of my accident I had just a light breakfast. I know now that my blood sugar was very low. I'm self-sufficient now. Before my accident I used to just carry a little purse with me. Now I have saddlebags and I carry food, water and clothes so I can dress according to the weather changes." All three women agreed that safety equipment, such as leathers and a helmet, is extremely important to them now.
Needless to say, it was not easy for Vicky, Laurie or Etta to return to riding. Each concurred that taking it slow and not being pressured by others is the best way to proceed. Additionally, having a support person is most helpful. Psychologically, this is sound advice. Gradual exposure is the best way to begin to ride again. If you have been in an accident and want to ride again your "cycle-therapy" prescription is to start by simply reading about motorcycles and looking at pictures. Then move to just sitting on a bike. Set up small goals for yourself and do not proceed to the next until you are comfortable with the last.



Resources
Brenda Bates has recently published a book called "Back in the Saddle Again: How to Overcome Fear of Riding after a Motorcycle Accident." You can order the book and learn more about Brenda and her work at BikePsych.com.


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