I wonder if anyone has considered starting an organization that would provide support if someone breaks down or has an accident while commuting. This organization could charge a membership fee for roadside service.

A quick Google Search turned this up:

http://www.betterworldclub.com/bicycles/bike_assistance.htm

Anyone have any experience with this organization?

I've seen the Better World Club but have not heard any reviews of their service. We hope to have funding sometime soon for a Guaranteed Ride Home program. Typically this provides vouchers to be used for taxi or transit service for use on an emergency basis.

In the meantime, depending on your route, please check out CARTA's schedule to use as a backup (www.carta-bus.org). Their routes cover most of the common roads into the central business district and every mainline and neighborhood bus has a rack for two bikes.

Also, you can share your route here and perhaps another club member who travels the same direction can serve as a backup.

Seems like the organization known as "Friends and Family" pretty much covers this service for me.

Dues are along the lines of the Golden Rule...

Friends, family or paid service...don't forget your cell phone (and ID in case you're hurt).