“Road Servants”
Service, Safety, Sacrifice

Road Servants are an elite group of members whose calling is to serve the body. These are those who are first to arrive and last to leave. They are the ones who set up and tear down. When someone is in need, they are there to help. On the road they serve as our Road Captains keeping us safe and shepherding us as we ride.

Jesus is the Road Servants' example. He is the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. As such, we follow his example, not seeking our own benefit, but seeking the good of the body. This calls for sacrifice.

First we sacrifice our pride. We lead by being a servant. Jesus said, “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life a ransom for many.” (Matt. 20:28)

Second we sacrifice our desires. It is not about us, but about the membership. Our greatness is not that we lead, but that we serve. Jesus said, “But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” Matt. 23:11)

Third we sacrifice our freedom. Each of us has an opinion. We all think our way is the best way. But our freedom is not a license to offend or allow our position as a leader to be domineering. Instead we freely sacrifice our freedom of opinion in order to maintain peace and to serve one another with love.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “For you were called to freedom, brethren' only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
He also wrote “The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged,” (2 Timothy 2:24)

Road Servants are the oil that keeps the ministry lubricated. They are the ones who smooth ruffled tail feathers, who place a balm on bruised egos, and keeps the ministry running like an engine with Amsoil in the crankcase!

I. Road Servants' Organization

a. Road Chief (Lead Road Captain)

i. The Road Chief is a member of the local chapter leadership team.
ii. He is appointed by the National Road Captain to a two year term
iii. He will lead and coordinate the activities and training of the Road Servants.
iv. He is entitled to wear a Road Chief pin or patch
v. There can be one Road Chief per section
vi. Duties include

      1. maintain contact with the Road Captains in his section
2. make sure that each of them are consistently teaching safety segments at monthly meetings
3. make sure each of them are teaching the group how to ride as WOF handbook states, to include safety     course drills at least 2 times per year.
4. make sure each of them are using a uniform system of hand signals
5. maintain an overall high emphasis on safety.
6. ensure road captains are demonstrating encouragement and excitement about rides.
7. keep National and State leaders informed of any changes in road captain status.
8. report any accidents to National and State Leaders immediately. Providing a brief description of the     details.

b. Road Captains
    I. Qualifications

1. Wheels of Faith member in good standing, patched with a minimum of ten rides or 2,000 ministry miles.
2. Exhibit a desire to serve.
3. Demonstrate a proficiency in safe riding.
4. Meet state requirements for operating a motorcycle.
5. Complete the Road Servants Mentoring Program
6. Participate as a Road Servant prospect in three rides.

    ii. Objectives

1. To Serve the Ministry.
2. Provide for the safety and welfare of all individuals within the group, and any surrounding motorists or pedestrians
3. Lead the group to its destination and back in a well-organized, disciplined, and safe manner.
4. Avoid creating hazardous situations.
5. To exemplify our credo to service, safety, and sacrifice.

c. Road Servant Prospect
     I. Qualification

1. Wheels of Faith prospective member in good standing.
2. Exhibit a desire to serve.
3. Demonstrate a proficiency in safe riding.
4. Meet Florida state requirements for operating a motorcycle.
5. Begin the Road Servants' Mentoring Program.

d. Road Servant Advancement

   i. Road Captain

1. Complete Road Captain qualifications.

    ii. Road Captain Silver

1. Serves as a Road Captain in 10 rides and 2 events. (Rodeo, Bike Week outreach, etc.) with a total of 3,500 ministry miles.
2. Mentors a Road Servant Prospect.
3. Wears silver armband/sash.

    iv. Road Captain Gold

1. Serves as a Road Captain Silver in 10 rides and 2 events. (Rodeo, Bike Week outreach, etc.) with a total of 5,000 ministry miles.
2. Mentors a Road Servant Prospect.
3. Wears a yellow or gold armband/sash.

e. Road Servant “Above and Beyond” Award
    I. This pin is awarded for unique actions or bravery in the face of danger, extreme sacrifice, or extreme service.
   ii. Any Road Captain can recommend any Wheels of Faith member for this award. The national leadership team will review the recommendation to determine whether the award should be granted.
 

2. ROAD CAPTAIN CHECKLIST

     A. The Paper Work
           Have all members sign sign-in sheet
           Obtain signed waivers from all non-members
           Welcome riders and introduce road captains

     B. The Plan
           Define destination and outline route
           Determine gas stop requirements
           Outline itinerary for the day
           Determine return plan

     C. The Procedures
           Review riding standards
           Staggered position and safe distance

Wheels of Faith “Road Rules”
The intent of this document is to give everyone information required to ride together safely. Please keep in mind that these guidelines are not intended to restrict your freedom, but instead, to help ensure that we all return home safely.

These guidelines cannot encompass every possible set of circumstances, but are intended to serve as a basic guide for most situations. Each person is therefore expected to read, understand, and apply these guidelines, using their best judgment.

This document supersedes any and all previous releases.

Please remember that YOU have the ultimate responsibility for YOUR safety, and always ride within your capabilities and that of your machines.


2.0 ALL GROUP RIDER'S RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1 Will observe the objectives and guidelines in order to assure the safety and the welfare of every individual within the group, and any surrounding motorists or pedestrians.

2.2 Will follow the instructions of the Road Captains in all situations, unless those instructions place the rider or any other individual in an unsafe situation.

2.3 Will maintain their motorcycle and other equipment in a safe riding condition.

2.4 Will ride with headlights on.

2.5 Will ride with a "safety first" attitude. The safety of all individuals, whether or not they are a part of the group, is of paramount importance.

3.0 MEETING PLACE AND DEPARTURE TIME

3.1 Meeting place and departure times will be reviewed at our monthly Road Captain's meeting preceding the scheduled event.

3.2 Rider briefing will be held just prior to departure, to establish a schedule for gas and rest stops, inform the group of the intended route, provide other pertinent information and review the group riding guidelines including formations and procedures.

3.3 Individuals should make every effort to arrive and be completely prepared for the scheduled departure time. This includes a full tank of gas.

4.0 RIDING FORMATION AND INDIVIDUAL POSITIONS

4.1 The standard formation, under good conditions of road, traffic, and weather, will be a double row, staggered, in one traffic lane. The interval will be no less than one second between staggered riders.

4.2 The Lead Road Captain will be at the head of the group, and typically will ride just to the left of lane center. Other Road Captains may be assigned positions within the group, which will be followed by the Rear Road Captain or "Sweep".

4.3 New members, guests, and any riders with little experience in group riding will be positioned at the front of the group, just behind the Lead Road Captain.

4.4 Each rider should maintain his or her starting line up position in the group until arrival at the destination. This allows each rider to become more familiar with the riding style and habits of those nearest him or her in the group, and is particularly important for the new or inexperienced riders.

4.5 Under certain conditions the Lead Road Captain will signal the group to form a single file formation. The signal is the left arm held overhead with one finger extended. Drop back to a safe following distance from the rider in front of you, and move into a single file.

4.6 It may be necessary to form smaller groups for safety due to surrounding conditions or local ordinances. The Middle Road Captains are authorized to slow down their part of the group, take the Lead position of the new group, and proceed as the Lead Road Captain of that group.

4.7 This may mean that the last rider of each group would become the Rear Road Captain for that group. If possible, this rider should be another recognized Road Captain. If another Road Captain is not available, this rider should be briefed prior to the run as to his or her responsibilities in the event this situation should occur. The new Rear Road Captain is NOT to take on the responsibilities of Sweep, unless authorized by the Lead Road Captain to do so.
 

5.0 SPEED, INTERVALS, AND DISTANCES

5.1 The Lead Road Captain will attempt to establish and maintain a uniform speed; consistent with the ability of the least experienced rider, surrounding conditions, and safe riding practices.

5.2 The Road Captains may choose to separate the group of inexperienced riders into a group of their own, consistent with expected or actual conditions.

5.3 All riders will make an effort to maintain the same speed to minimize the effect of irregular speeds on riders at the rear of the group.

5.4 All riders will maintain a safe distance (ref. Section 5.5) and lane positions between themselves and the rider directly ahead; to be consistent with existing road, traffic, and weather conditions.

5.5 Minimum Safe Following Distances

Within the group, a safe distance is defined as a MINIMUM TWO SECOND DELAY between the rider, and the next rider directly ahead (ref. NOTE below). This means that there is a MINIMUM of a ONE SECOND DELAY between staggered riders. Whenever a single file formation is employed, a safe distance remains defined as a MINIMUM of a TWO SECOND DELAY between the rider, and the rider directly ahead.

With respect to vehicles ahead of the group, a safe distance is defined as a MINIMUM of a THREE SECOND DELAY between the Lead Road Captain, and any vehicle directly ahead of the group (ref. NOTE below).

NOTE: It's important to keep in mind that a two second interval is a MINIMUM safe requirement in order to react in the event of a potentially hazardous condition, NOT TO STOP.

In group riding, a one-second interval between STAGGERED riders is a policy consistent with the recommendations of most traffic and safety agencies including the states of Florida.

STAGGERED motorcycles are considered to be in a "virtual" lane of their own, that is that there is a two-second interval between motorcycles in a direct line. This group riding technique requires all participants to constantly ANTICIPATE an EMERGENCY.

5.6 A safe lane position is defined as riding immediately to the right or left of lane center. This will keep the riders just off the center oil stain, while maintaining the staggered formation, distance between riders and other obstacles, and providing necessary lane.
 

6.0 TRAFFIC LANES

6.1 The Lead Road Captain will attempt to lead the group in a single lane when the traffic flow appears to be most consistent with the speed of the group (using lane changes only when necessary to pass slower traffic or to avoid a hazardous condition) and to avoid blocking faster surrounding traffic.

6.2 On highways with two lanes each direction, the group will normally travel in the number two lane, also known as the "SLOW" lane, (ref. Note below) allowing faster traffic to pass to left; except when passing slower traffic on the right.

6.3 On highways with three or more lanes in each direction, the group will normally travel in the number two lane (ref. Note below), keeping the right lane open for other vehicles entering and exiting the highway, and the left lane(s) for traffic to pass.

NOTE: Lanes are counted from left to right. The left lane is often referred to as the "FAST" or "PASSING" lane, and is counted as lane number one. Remaining traffic lanes are then counted up until the right most, or "SLOW" lane is counted.

7.0 LANE CHANGES AND PASSING

7.1 On a multi-lane highway, the double row staggered formation will normally be maintained.

7.2 The Lead Road Captain will hold his or her position and signal for a lane change.

7.3 All riders will hold their positions and pass the signal to the rear.

7.4 The Rear Road Captain will change lanes at the first safe opportunity, protecting the lane for the group, and allowing the Lead Road Captain to see that the lane is clear and protected.

7.5 We then change lanes using the "follow the leader" approach. The Lead Road Captain will change lanes first followed by all other riders moving from the front to the rear of the group.

NOTE: NOBODY, except the Sweep, is to change lanes before the Lead Road Captain. ALWAYS make a HEAD CHECK before you begin the lane change, and maintain safe distances.

7.6 There are times it will not be possible for the entire group to change lanes as above. When this situation arises, the Road Captain will signal for a turn, and signal the group with one finger extended into the air. This indicates that changing lanes as a group is not possible. The Road Captain will then changes lanes when safe to do so. Everyone signals, head checks, and changes lanes front to back, as individuals, when safe to do so. Should the group become separated, regroup when it is safe to do so. Please use known good safety practices, INCLUDING HEAD CHECKS.

7.7 On a two-lane road with two way traffic (one lane each way), a single file formation should be used when passing other vehicles. On occasion, the Lead Road Captain may continue in the passing lane, while safe to do so, allowing other riders to see that the way is clear for them to continue the group passing maneuver.

7.8 If for any reason the group becomes separated, merge safely back to the pack, returning to your original position, using known good safety practices. Don't feel it's necessary to break the world land speed record in trying to catch up. The Lead Road Captain will be aware and adjust accordingly.

NOTE: Be certain the road is clear, and always make a HEAD CHECK immediately prior to initiating any maneuver which may cause you to cross other road users. The Road Captain, your mirror, or what you saw just a second ago are no substitutes for your own eyes and good judgment! Please remember that YOU, and ONLY YOU, are RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR SAFETY. Also, that when dealing with our four wheeled friends, you will never win a contest against them. It won't do any good to be "Dead Right".
 

8.0 GAS, FOOD, REST STOPS, AND TOLLS

8.1 If necessary, due to the length of the trip, gas, food, and rest stops should be discussed and scheduled prior to departure. These scheduled stops should be adhered to as much as possible, depending on varying conditions as the trip progresses.

8.2 Deviation from the scheduled stops may be required due to varying weather, traffic, and bladder conditions (availability of gas, rider fatigue, and other unforeseen circumstances).

8.3 Gas and rest stops should be limited to no more than ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the size of the group. Remember the last rider in the group waits the longest; therefore has the shortest rest period.

8.4 Meal stops will vary in length with the size of the group, but should be held to a reasonable minimum.

8.5 If toll stops are included, money should be collected in advance. If available, a riding couple should be positioned in the number two slot. As the group approaches the tollbooth, the Lead Road Captain will allow this bike to assume the lead position in order to exchange the toll. The Lead Road Captain will assume the lead as soon as it is safe to do so. If a riding couple is not available, it then becomes the Lead Road Captain's responsibility to pay at the tollbooth.

NOTE: Remember to avoid the center of the lane when nearing or passing through a tollbooth. They are usually extremely slick.
 

9.0 UNSCHEDULED OR EMERGENCY STOPS

9.1 Unscheduled stops for gas, restroom, or rider fatigue can lead to confusion in the group, and confusion can lead to accidents. The Lead Road Captain should be informed that a stop is necessary in order to lead the group in an organized fashion to the next convenient and safe place to stop.

9.2 Any rider with an equipment problem should inform one of the Road Captains as quickly, and as safely as possible.

9.3 When the Lead Road Captain is informed, he or she will stop the group at the earliest possible moment, when and where, it is safe.

9.4 If the rider must pull over immediately, ONLY the Rear Road Captain will accompany that rider to a stop. The Lead Road Captain should be informed if he or she is not aware of this situation. Once the Lead Road Captain is informed, he or she will pull the group over as soon as it is safe to do so.

9.5 Any rider observing a problem with another rider's equipment should inform that rider as quickly and safely as possible. If it appears that a stop is necessary, a Road Captain should also be notified.

 

10.0 ACCIDENTS

10.1 In the event the group comes upon the scene of an accident, the Lead Road Captain will stop the group at the earliest possible moment (Keeping with known good safety practices). It may be necessary for the group to disperse and park separately to avoid creating additional hazardous conditions.

10.2 Members of the group will provide assistance in any practical way possible, including, but not limited to:
Slow, divert, or stop traffic in a safe manner, using flares if available.
Aid and comfort those involved.
Call 911 to notify the police, ambulance, and or fire service as the situation demands.
Maintain order and preserve the accident scene for police investigation.
If possible, take photographs
If possible, obtain license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions, including driver descriptions in the event of a hit and run violation.
Obtain names and addresses of witnesses if necessary.
If possible maintain overall control of the situation until relieved by the proper authorities.
 

11.0 HAND SIGNALS

11.1 At all times, standard hand signals will be used for: changing the formation to a single row and back to double staggered, all turns, lane changes, slowing, and stopping. Turn signal lights will also be used at all times.

11.2 All signals will be relayed to the rear of the group to allow all riders to take appropriate precautionary measures, and be aware of changes in speed and direction.

11.3 Hand signals will be used at all times, to point out road hazards to following riders by pointing.

11.4 Left arm held high, one finger extended over head indicates single file, and extended following distance.

11.5 Left arm held high with two fingers extended over head indicates the standard staggered formation.

11.6 Left arm held high, moving in a circle indicates a U-turn.

11.7 Left arm held high, one finger extended over head, followed by the Road Captain signaling and changing lanes indicates:

The Lead Road Captain will move as an individual, to whatever maneuver or position is required.

The group will follow as individuals, in a "follow the leader" approach, signaling and following the Road Captain as appropriate and safe.

11.8 Other signals may be developed and added as required.