ST. GEORGE — A motorcyclist sustained head trauma in an incident involving another motorcyclist during a group ride on state Route 18 around noon on Saturday.
The crash occurred at a bend in the road as part of a larger group ride heading north near mile marker 35 on SR-18. Washington County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Lucas Alfred told St. George News that deputies on the scene reported that the crash happened when the front motorcycle rider in the group began slowing down, preparing for a bend in the road.
The second motorcyclist, who was following closely, did not notice the slowdown in time to react, and minor contact between the two bikes caused the crash, authorities said.
The rider on the rear motorcycle suffered injuries to the head and the collision resulted in a compound fracture in one of his arms, Alfred said. The patient was transported with “large contusions and abrasions on his head and a possible skull fracture.”
“Before Mercy Air or Life Flight could respond, medical crews canceled their response and took him by ground,” Alfred said.
The rider was transported by ambulance to St. George Regional Hospital. The front motorcyclist did not suffer any significant injuries, Alfred said.
“Helmets save lives,” Sgt. Alfred said. “We urge everybody to wear them. They’re very, very important.”
Authorities said they do not believe speed was a factor in this incident, although the investigation is ongoing.
Updated at 6 p.m.: Frank Yengich emailed St. George News stating he was operating the first motorcycle involved in the incident and was wearing his helmet.
This report is based on statements from court records, police or other responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.
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