Our turtle airvest is supplied through work, and I will admit to being a little bit sceptical on the benefits of wearing one… I guess I never thought it would happen to me. 

Cue work last Monday, assessment ride for a student on an initial advanced motorcycle course. On pulling my gear out of my locker at work, I also put the airvest on. Honestly the first time I have worn it since it was supplied to me. 

We set off, making decent progress on a national speed limit road towards Mansfield. 

Then it happened. A car pulled out on me, one of the worst things that can happen to a motorcyclist. We both braked. I took avoiding action but ended up on the grass verge to the near side. 

Bike dug in and flipped. All I can remember is riding onto the grass, then being face down in nettles. 

Check of fingers and toes, all seemed ok. Rolled on my back, student came running to me, in his words expecting me to be dead, but he says “what’s that hissing”. 

Airvest. I now remember I have it on. It’s squeezing me tight, really tight. I cannot remember it deploying. 

Ambulance arrive. All my gear is cut off (sorry airvest). Neck brace, back board, morphine, the works. 

Off to hospital, into trauma. CT scans, checks. Doctor looks a little baffled 
“you came off at 90mph?”. 
“Well, probably 40-50 once I’d braked”. 
“I’m pleased to say you haven’t broken anything. You will be sore and bruised, but your ok to go”

Cue the best tasting ham sandwich and instant coffee and then I am off home. 

Yes I am sore, my chest hurts like hell and I’ve got some bumps and bruises… but that’s it. 

What’s saved me? Limited my injuries?

Airvest. Without a doubt. 

From someone once quite sceptical, to being a complete convert.