Former Governor Bob Riley was injured in a motorcycle accident near Fairbanks, Alaska, Sunday afternoon.
Riley is being treated in a Fairbanks hospital for several broken bones and a punctured lung.
He was wearing a helmet, and his doctors expect him to make a full recovery. He will return to Alabama as soon as his doctors clear him to travel.
The accident occurred while Riley was traveling on a dirt and gravel road. As it began to rain, he hit a slick spot and had to lay the motorcycle down to avoid losing control.
Current Alabama Governor Robert Bentley expressed concern upon hearing the news of Riley’s accident.
“I was concerned to hear the news this afternoon that Governor Riley had been involved in a motorcycle accident while on his long awaited trip to Alaska.,” Bentley said. “I am relieved to hear that he is expected to make a complete recovery. He, Patsy, and the rest of the Riley family are in the thoughts and prayers of all Alabamians today. Dianne and I wish only the best for him, and pray for the Governor’s speedy recovery so that he can get back to the things he enjoys doing.”
Former First Lady Patsy Riley is traveling to Alaska to be with him.
“God was watching out for him,” said Mrs. Riley. “We feel blessed because it could have been so much worse.”