Mountain Cyclist Takes Bad Spill at Whiting Ranch

A 70-year-old mountain biker took a bad spill on a trail in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park today, prompting a reminder from firefighters of the importance of wearing a helmet, which likely spared the victim more serious injuries.

The bicyclist was riding with a friend about 8:30 a.m. on Serrano Creek Trail Road toward Live Oak Trail when he picked up too much speed and ended up tumbling over the handlebars and landing on his head, Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi said.

The fall knocked the man unconscious for a few minutes. But because he was wearing a helmet, he likely avoided more serious injuries, Concialdi said.

Paramedics were airlifted to the remote area by helicopter and then had to hike the rest of the way to the victim, who was transported to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Concialdi said.

“We’ve had two remote rescues today, which is very common on the weekend,” Concialdi said. “We just ask mountain bikers to slow down and be careful and always wear helmets.”

--City News Service

PHOTO Patch file photo credit: Penny Arévalo