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Articles related to motorcycle riding attire; boots, leathers, helmet, googles, etc.

Breaking News- Anaheim, California – DUI Checkpoints and Patrols Scheduled for Today, Saturday, October 17th, 2009, and Sunday, October 18, 2009, and more!

Written on October 17, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Biker Rights, Criminal Law, Editorial, EPA, General Legal, In The Wind, News, Other, Regulations, Riding Attire

Anaheim dui checkpoints and rousting bikers and motorcyclist The following is directly from a press release from the Anaheim Police Department. It was not written by me.

### Beginning of Press Release.

The Anaheim Police Department host a total of 6 Sobriety and Drivers License checkpoints, starting with one on Harbor Boulevard near La Palma Park on Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM Sunday, October 18, 2009. In addition to checking for DUI drivers, officers will be checking those driving with suspended licenses. Safe driving pamphlets will be handed out to drivers screened at the checkpoint. Checkpoints are designed to bring DUI awareness to the most number of drivers.

The Anaheim Police Department has been awarded a DUI enforcement and awareness grant to combat DUI for a total of $205,115. Funding for this program is provided through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This funding will supplement the departments’ overall commitment to lower DUI related traffic collisions. These additional monies will fund additional sobriety checkpoints, DUI patrols and other efforts to help bring about a zero level of DUI in the city of Anaheim.

The additional saturation patrols funded by the grant will increase the number of officers in the field to help assist the program “Report Drunk Drivers: Call 9-1-1”. With the grant’s funding, Anaheim Police will add 4 additional officers to the field nearly every weekend during the next twelve months. These additional officers will be able to respond quicker to 9-1-1 calls by those reporting erratic drivers on our streets. New this time is the addition of the OTS Motorcycle Safety Campaign.

The Anaheim Police will conduct four Motorcycle Safety and Enforcement programs over the next year. The department will take to the streets and focus on the motorcycle rider. Officers plan on working with motorcycle shops, clubs and dealers in the area to first educate the rider and then ensure they are in compliance with the law. DUI and the proper use of helmets will be the first on the list as these are the primary causes of death and serious injury to the motorcycle riding public.

For any media questions, contact Sergeant Rick Martinez at (714) 497-6608 or email him at Rmartinez@anaheim.net

## End of Press Release.

Notice the part about the motorcycle safety and enforcement programs. It looks like the writing is on the wall in Anaheim and they are going to start rousting bikers, motorcycle riders, and shops. If this occurs, I say boycott Anaheim. We have a right to be on the street too.

California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer and Biker Attorney

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Tags: anaheim police, biker lawyer, california motorycle accident attorney, california personal injury, check points, drunk driving, dui, dui checkpoint, Insurance, motorcycle enforcement, motorcycle rider, News, Riding Attire

Let’s Talk Real No B.S. Motorcycle Riding Safety; The Two Most Important Safety Items.

Written on October 12, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, Editorial, Education, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer and Biker Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez on the road.

First off let me start off by stating that I do not advocate mandatory helmet laws or anything like that. I feel that each motorcycle rider should have the right to wear whatever they want to wear while riding. The advice I am giving in this article is just that, advice. You can and will ultimately do whatever the hell you want to do. However, if this article helps someone be safe while riding a motorcycle, then so be it.

I personally think that the two most important things you should wear while riding a motorcycle are; a good helmet, and a good leather jacket. Let me explain.

Now I know that there are other what I consider to be mandatory motorcycle safety items that should be worn, such as gloves, boots, leather or heavy jean pants, etc., however, this article is about what I consider to be the two most important safety items.

I am a California motorcycle accident attorney. I handle motorcycle accident cases, and other types of personal injury cases for a living. I also happen to be a biker and a motorcyclist who rides a significant number of miles each year on my Harley Davidson Electra Glide.

I have seen a marked increase in the number of motorcycle accidents, and a substantial increase in motorcycle deaths in the past decade. Furthermore, it has been reported by many different sources that there has been a tremendous increase in the number of motorcycle accidents and motorcycle accident deaths in recent years. I am sure these all have to do with an increase in the number of motorcycle riders on the road.

Knowing this, I can think of a couple of things I would not like to happen, god forbid if I do go down. I would like to keep the grey matter between my ears inside of my skull instead of being splattered all over the road, I would like to keep my face, and rather than having all my skin rubbed off by the pavement, I would rather a leather jacket be the one that gets the brunt of the punishment.

Look we all know that wearing a helmet is mandatory in California and some other States. I for one don’t care if there is a law or not, I wear a full face modular helmet when I ride, and I suggest that you do the same. This is not rocket science; it is about surviving a motorcycle accident. It does not take a genius to figure out what happens when your head or face meets the pavement at 70 miles per hour; the pavement wins.

There is virtually nothing better to protect your upper body from a fall than a good heavy leather jacket. If you go down, it may still hurt, but the leather will take the brunt of any road rash. They even sell lightweight armor that can be worn under the jacket or inserted into the jacket. I know, sometimes it is too hot to wear a jacket, or you want to look cool. Well it is not cool to have permanent road rash scars all over your body just because you decided not to wear the jacket, or suffering as your skin heals from road rash.

We who ride motorcycles know two things, it is not a matter of if we are going down, it is a matter of when; and we sure the hell do not want to go down. I myself have been down 3 times in the past. God was with me, all of my mishaps were minor, and I only suffered minor injuries in two of them.

I have been involved in numerous close “scary” calls while riding, and if you are a motorcycle rider, you have been too. It is just the nature of the beast.

Once at the Palm Springs Biker Rally in 2000, I was only wearing a sleeveless T-Shirt, when I went down at low speed. It hurt, and caused some minor road rash on my left side where I laid it down. That small amount of road rash hurt like hell. Imagine what losing multiple layers of skin feels like; I sure don’t want to feel that. Wear a friggen leather jacket.

You can take this article as you will. Unlike some other poser fake biker lawyers, and motorcycle accident attorney’s out there advertising that they handle motorcycle accident cases, when they don’t actually ride motorcycles, or have any clue whatsoever about the issues related to riding a motorcycle and being a biker, I am the real deal. I, just like you, am a biker and a motorcyclist.

I will be here for you if you need me after a motorcycle accident; however, I would prefer to see fewer injuries because you were smart and were wearing proper safety equipment.

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Tags: biker lawyer, Cagers, california motorycle accident attorney, california personal injury, helmet, helmets, leather, leather jacket, leather jackets, leathers, motorcycle helmet, motorcycle safety equipment, Riding Attire, safety, safety equipment

This Luckiest Guy on Earth or is He Plain Dumb.

Written on October 2, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, Car Accidents, Editorial, Education, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Accident Videos, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Videos

I am posting a video of a motorcycle accident that happened in Greece, below. It is amazing footage of an actual motorcycle accident. Based upon what I am seeing in this video, the guy is lucky to be alive. He could have suffered massive internal injuries, broken bones, brain injuries, or death.

I cannot tell for sure from the video, who was at fault in the accident, because the video does not show the status of the traffic lights or other factors. However, I think it is safe to say that the guy on the motorcycle probably had a green light and was nailed by a cager who ran the red. If there is anyone on here who can decipher what is being said in Greek, please post a comment and tell us what is being said.

I am not posting this motorcycle accident video just for the sake posting it. I am posting it to show you what as a biker lawyer and motorcycle accident attorney I hate to see more than anything, a rider who does not ride with proper attire. What is this guy thinking? He has no leathers on; he is riding his motorcycle while wearing tennis shoes, shorts, t-shirt, and no helmet. He should have denim jeans or leather on, including a jacket, boots, gloves, and if it were me, a helmet.

You be the judge.

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Tags: biker lawyer, california motorycle accident attorney, california personal injury, motorcycle accident, motorcycle accident video, motorcycle riding attire, Personal Injury Resouces, Riding Attire

Off Road Motorcycle, Dirt Bikes, Dune Buggies, Golf Cart, Snowmobiles, and ATV (standard, sport and utility) Insurance and Safety; Some Important Tips.

Written on June 1, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Brakes, Editorial, Education, Maintenance, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Other, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

California Personal Injury Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses Off Road vehicle insurance and safety I was reading a story whereby a 14-year-old girl from Woodacre, California was airlifted to an Oakland hospital Sunday afternoon after a collision between two off-road motorcycles in Novato.

The girl suffered head and internal injuries in an undeveloped lot near the junction of highways 101 and 37 and was flown to Oakland Children’s Hospital by helicopter, said Novato police Lt. Dave Jeffries. Her name has not been released because she is a minor.

The dirt bikes collided on a relatively flat trail at about 1 p.m., and Novato fire personnel arrived a few minutes later.

A 15-year-old male was on the other motorcycle and suffered a minor hand injury, He was not transported to a hospital, Jeffries said.

Fire Capt. Jeff Whittet said the girl was wearing a helmet but suffered moderate to severe injuries. She was conscious when rescuers treated her at the site.

“I would say they didn’t hit head-on but they crossed up their handlebars,” Whittet said.

The undeveloped Hanna Ranch site, about 4 1/2 acres just south of the Vintage Oaks shopping center, is popular with off-road motorcyclists. A 62,000-square-foot office complex has been approved there but construction has not begun.

The story got me thinking about some cases I have had involving off road motorcycles and other off road sports vehicles. It also got me thinking about a story my friend Scott told me about his son having multiple bad accidents on dirt bikes.

Most people do not realize that you can purchase insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones while they are riding off road vehicles such as dirt bikes, dune buggies, golf carts, snowmobiles, and all terrain vehicles. (ATV’s) as a matter of fact it would be dumb to engage in off road motor vehicle activities without insurance because to be frank, there are many off road motor vehicle accidents, but you never hear about them because they go unreported.

Most off road motor vehicle insurance policies cover: Collision, Liability, Medical, Safety Apparel Coverage for damage to any clothing designed to minimize damage from an accident, including helmets and goggles, Optional Equipment Coverage including towable trailers or sleds made for use with an ATV or snowmobile, and more. You pay to cover yourself in your street car, truck, or motorcycle; it only makes sense to protect yourself and your loved ones with off road vehicle insurance. You can find insurance companies providing this type of insurance all over the Internet. Do a search on Google, MSN Live, or Yahoo to find them.

Here are some basic off road safety tips. When You Ride the Trail, Put Safety First!

Think ahead.
Ask your local dealer about the laws and regulations in your area. Do your best to preserve the areas where you ride, and be sure that you only ride where off-road vehicles are permitted. Read your owner’s manual. Then make sure you take your manual, a small tool kit and essential spare parts with you whenever you ride.

Gear up.
For optimum protection in case of an accident, always wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, a sturdy jacket, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.

Practice.
Find a safe place to practice braking, turning and improving your reaction time to help improve your skills and make you a better – and safer – rider.

Learn more.
Improve your riding skills by taking a training course. Make sure your vehicle is properly licensed or registered. Choose a vehicle that is appropriate for your age and ability.

Stay off paved roads.
Remember that off-road vehicles are meant for operation off pavement and public roads. These surfaces may not only be illegal, but dangerous. Your off-road vehicle may be difficult to control on pavement, which could result in an accident.

Maintain control and stay sharp.
Keep your speed right for the conditions and your experience. Be aware of current terrain, visibility and weather conditions, potential hazards or obstacles. Ride only when your senses are sharp. Never do drugs or drink and then ride.

Check it out.
Be sure to check that your off-road vehicle is running properly before hitting the trail. Always check controls, lights, fuel and oil levels, switches, chain, driveshaft, tires and chassis before you head out. Follow the recommended service schedule for your off-road vehicle and be sure an authorized service provider makes all repairs.

Go it alone.
Never carry a passenger on your off-road vehicle unless the vehicle is designed with an appropriate passenger seat. Additional weight can greatly affect the handling of your off-road vehicle and potentially cause loss of control. It’s a good idea to take a buddy along, only on their own vehicle.

Know you’re protected>
Be sure you have proper insurance coverage to protect your vehicle and provide liability coverage in case someone gets injured or property is damaged during the use of your vehicle.

Off road motor sports can be very fun and exciting for the whole family. Exercising proper safety and insuring yourself against loss will make it that much better!

By California Personal Injury Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2009
www.thepersonalinjury.com

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Tags: Articles, california motorycle accident attorney, california personal injury, Child Custody / Visitation, Child Support, Domestic Violence, golf cart, Lawyers, motocross, motorcycle, off road safety, off road vehicle, Other, Paternity, personal injury attorney, personal injury lawyer

My Fiance and I Were The Victims of a Road Rage Incident Today!

Written on March 15, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Biker and Motorcycle Law, Biker Rights, Brakes, Cagers, Criminal Law, Editorial, Education, In The Wind, Norman Gregory Fernandez Ride Reports, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses a road rage incident against him My fiancé and I had a great time riding with some of my club brothers and friends Sunday. It was a great Sunday. A friend and I decided to take off and ride to Angeles Crest from Marina Del Rey.

We rode the 10 freeway, east, to the 110 north, to the 5 north, to the 2 north, headed toward the 210 and the Angeles Crest Highway.

Some idiot for some odd reason seemed to intentionally almost hit me from behind. Maybe he does not like bikers? It happened so fast, the only thing I could do is turn my head to give the guy a stare. I was wearing a full face modular helmet, with my sunglasses on underneath, but I am sure the way I zipped my head around this guy knew that I knew what he was doing.

Instead of backing off, he kept coming. Mind you, my friend and his old lady were behind the car at this point and could see everything. My old lady was riding shotgun on the seat behind me. I moved to the extreme left part of the lane to avoid being hit by this asshole.

He then proceeded to pass me “IN MY LANE.” I looked over and saw what I think was a Korean guy. He proceeded to “stare me down” while he was in my lane and I was in the extreme left portion of the lane.

I knew if I kept staring this guy down, he would have probably swerved over and taken my old lady and I out. This asshole basically assaulted us with a deadly weapon. I am quite positive that under the circumstances, I could have used deadly force against this asshole because he almost killed us, and he used his car as a deadly weapon against us.

I slowed down, and he accelerated and took off. I tried to get his license, but I could not. He was in a Black Lexus.

If any other bikers near the 5 and the Glendale Freeway have been the victim of an Asian guy driving a Black Lexus, let me know.

I have been riding motorcycles on public streets for around 28 years, and have never had such a bizarre incident happen to me before while riding. Especially when I have my old lady on the back of my motorcycle.

My fiancé and my friend probably do not realize how close this asshole came to taking us out. Lesson learned and reiterated; motorcycle v. car = motorcycle losing. Thank goodness, I kept a cool head and simply let this asshole pass.

My friend’s old lady was not feeling well so they went home. My old lady and I ended up freezing our buts off on a ride up to 8,000 feet and Newcombs Ranch, for a late lunch next to their fireplace, alive to ride another day thank god!

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Tags: angeles crest highway, Articles, Brakes, Cagers, california motorycle accident attorney, Education, fiance, Maintenance, News, Riding Attire, road rage

When You Have Not Ridden Your Motorcycle For a Few Months; Take It Easy!

Written on February 23, 2009 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, Education, In The Wind, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman G. Fernandez discusses not riding your motorcycle for a while. It is winter time in the good old USA. In many parts of the country, many bikers and motorcyclist have their motorcycles in winter storage until the weather gets better. In other parts of the country, motorcycles have been sitting for weeks or months just waiting for the weather to get better so their owners can ride again.

When it comes time to ride again, some bikers and motorcyclist may have been off of their motorcycles for weeks or months. This is when you need to be most careful!

Riding a motorcycle is not like riding a bicycle as the old saying goes. In order to ride a motorcycle safely, you must ride consistently. Even being out of the saddle a couple of weeks can make you rusty.

How many of you have done a thousand mile plus, multi-day motorcycle run? Is it not true that after a few hundred miles you are sharp as steel on your motorcycle? The reason you are as sharp as steel is because you are on your motorcycle riding.

The more you ride, the better you get. The less you ride, the rustier you get. It is as simple as that.

The worst possible thing you can do if you have been out of the saddle for some amount of time, is to jump back on and ride like a bat out of hell. It takes a bit of time to re-acclimate yourself to your motorcycle and riding in traffic.

I know a guy who builds motorcycles for a living. Due to health issues, he did not ride his motorcycle for a few months. What did he do, as soon as he got back into the saddle on his motorcycle? He rode like he never took any time off. He promptly almost lost his ass due to his accelerating too fast through a water puddle in an intersection. Not only was he embarrassed, but he pulled his back out trying to keep the motorcycle up. This experience actually caused him to quit riding.

I have seen lots of bone head moves on motorcycles. Most if not all of them can be avoided by exercising simple safety measures and discretion.

So if you have been out of the saddle for a bit of time. Take it damm easy and get re-acquainted with your motorcycle.

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Should You Stop Riding Motorcycles When You Reach A Certain Age?

Written on August 7, 2008 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, California Motorcycle Accident, Editorial, Education, Fatal Motorcycle Accident, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Other, Personal Injury, Riding Attire, Wrongful Death

California motorcycle accident attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses age as a factor for riding motorcycles Well everyone who knows me personally, or reads the Biker Law Blog, knows or should know that I sometimes embrace controversial topics. I am sure this article will be one of them.

So now I will pose the question; should you stop riding your motorcycle when you reach a certain age?

I recently read a book written by a gentleman named Ted Simon, called “Dreaming of Jupiter,” wherein the then 69 year old Ted Simon (a.k.a. Jupiter) rode around the world in a two year period. He had a couple of accidents along the way, one requiring surgery. However this man did ride around the world! (I will be reviewing his book in the Biker Law Blog soon.

There are a couple of indisputable truths; on average our bodily functions and senses start decreasing after 40 years of age, and the fatality statistics for motorcycle riders over 40 years of age who are involved in a motorcycle accident have risen alarmingly over the past few years.

Hell I just turned 45 years old myself this past June. I know I am not the same man that I was in my twenties or thirties, but I can pretty much still kick some ass, as can many of you if you know what I mean

Nonetheless, a long time motorcycle rider just signed up with my firm who has been riding motorcycles for over 50 years without a single accident; not a single one! Then one sunny afternoon as he is riding with a pack of 8 motorcycles, one of which was his son, and another, a former client of mine and a good friend, then bam, lights out, life flight helicopter, major injuries, stuck in a hospital in a medically induced stupor, well you get the picture.

For some reason this particular accident got me to thinking about my own safety on a motorcycle and whether I should retire from riding motorcycles at a certain age. Don’t get me wrong, I am a life long motorcycle rider, and could not imagine ever living without being able to ride a motorcycle.

My life experience riding motorcycles and my experience as a renowned biker and motorcycle accident lawyer in the State of California have definitely changed the kind of motorcycle I ride and the way I ride motorcycles. For instance, I now wear a modular flip up full face helmet 99.9% of the time while I am riding (in the past I wore no helmet or just a beanie), even though the guys I ride with are all wearing beanie helmets. I mostly ride with a full leather jacket on no matter what as well.

The cost/benefit ratio is just not palatable to me in case I am in an accident, i.e. losing my face in a crash as opposed to wearing a full face helmet, etc.

Getting back to the subject, should I stop riding motorcycles at a certain age, should anybody? We all know or have heard the stories about the old men and women who take out a crowd on a sidewalk in their car, or have caused accidents when they hit the wrong peddle in their cars.

On a motorcycle there are no second chances in most cases, especially for older riders who on the average have a harder time recovering from injuries than younger people. On a motorcycle, you must be sharp, have all of your faculties, and be able to function better then you would driving a car. Your life depends on it.

I have ridden in packs for many years. I can tell you without a doubt that there are many guys and gals riding motorcycles today, that should not be riding motorcycles, and that would probably fail a motorcycle riding test if they were given one.

If you are reading this, you may come to the realization that I may be talking about you! I hope not!

Riding a motorcycle requires constant practice to stay on top of your game whether you are young or old, but as you age the odds become stacked against you.

I read many biker websites and Internet forums related to bikers. It blows my mind that most of the people on these sites seem to spend more time writing about what a bad ass biker they are, then actually riding! How can they possibly be up on their game when they are sitting on their ass 7 days a week for hours at a time on an Internet chat room talking about riding?

Anyway, as for me, I have contemplated whether I should stop riding at a certain age. For me riding a motorcycle will always be fun, however, I have decided if there ever comes a time when I am a danger to myself in the saddle, I will hang it up. Hopefully if and when this time ever comes, I will realize it without having a motorcycle accident! I hope this time never comes, but if I do live to be an old man which I hope I do, it will inevitably come!

I hope the same for all of you too. Hell there was a guy from Australia in his 70’s that broke several land speed records on an Indian at the Bonneville Salt Flats. He even went down once. Even he questioned whether he was getting too old!

Why am I writing this article, well because I actually care about people? I would rather see you all safe than as a statistic.

I really would appreciate your comments on this subject.

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It is Almost That Time Again; May, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month!

Written on April 24, 2008 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Brakes, Cagers, Education, Maintenance, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

california biker lawyer norman gregory fernandez discusses may being motorcycle safety awareness month Last year around this time I wrote an article about May being motorcycle safety awareness month, which you can read by clicking here now.

Although it is not quite May, 2008 yet, as my fiancé and I get ready to ride to Laughlin, Nevada for the Laughlin River Run ( you can read an article about last years run by clicking here now. ) and with the weather being so good here in Southern California, and Nevada, I know there will be bikers and motorcyclist out riding by the tens of thousands over the next week!

Keep it safe people. Motorcycle Safety means inspecting your motorcycle, wearing proper motorcycle riding gear, and riding defensively on the road.

Just because I am a Biker Lawyer and I handle many motorcycle accident cases, does not mean that I do not like to have fun out there myself. Yes, I too may give my Electra Glide a bit too much throttle from time to time, and yes I too may take off the helmet while riding in Arizona over the next week, but nonetheless, I will still be careful and cognizant.

Bottom line, be safe on your motorcycles ALL OF THE TIME people. The month of May was meant by the NHTSA to make you aware of safety. I say motorcycle safety is a full time gig!

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Make Motorcycle Riding Safety Your Top Priority!

Written on April 10, 2008 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Brakes, Cagers, California Motorcycle Accident, Education, Fatal Motorcycle Accident, In The Wind, Maintenance, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Personal Injury, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

Motorcycle Safety Riding Tips from Motorcycle Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez. Operating a motorcycle takes different skills than driving a car; however, the laws of the road apply to every driver just the same. A combination of consistent education, regard for traffic laws and basic common sense can go a long way in helping reduce the amount of fatalities involved in motorcycle accidents on a yearly basis.

Here is a checklist that every motorcycle rider should follow:

Always wear a helmet with a face shield or protective eyewear — Wearing a helmet is the best way to protect against severe head injuries. A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury.

Wear appropriate gear — Make sure to wear protective gear and clothing that will minimize the amount of injuries in case of an accident or a skid. Wearing leather clothing, boots with nonskid soles, and gloves can protect your body from severe injuries. Consider attaching reflective tape to your clothing to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

Follow traffic rules — Obey the speed limit; the faster you go the longer it will take you to stop. Be aware of local traffic laws and rules of the road.

Ride defensively — Don’t assume that a driver can see you, as nearly two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver violating a rider’s right of way. You should always ride with your headlights on; stay out of a driver’s blind spot; signal well in advance of any change in direction; and watch for turning vehicles.

Keep your riding skills honed through education — Complete a formal riding education program, get licensed and take riding courses from time to time to develop riding techniques and to sharpen your street-riding strategies.

Be awake and ride sober — Don’t drink and ride, you could cause harm to yourself and others. Additionally, fatigue and drowsiness can impair your ability to react, so make sure that you are well rested when you hit the road.

Preparing to Ride

Making sure that your motorcycle is fit for the road is just as important as practicing safe riding. Should something be wrong with your motorcycle, it will be in your best interest to find out prior to hitting the road. To make sure that your motorcycle is in good working order, check the following:

Tires — check for any cracks or bulges, or signs of wear in the treads. Low tire pressure or any defects could cause a blowout.

Under the motorcycle — Look for signs of oil or gas leaks.

Headlight, taillight and signals — Test for high and low beams. Make sure that all lights are functioning.

Hydraulic and Coolant fluids — Level should be checked weekly.

Once you’ve mounted the motorcycle, complete the following checks:

Clutch and throttle – Make sure they are working smoothly. Throttle should snap back when released.

Mirrors — Clean and adjust all mirrors to ensure sharpest viewing.

Brakes — Test front and rear brakes. Each brake should feel firm and hold the motorcycle still when fully applied.

Horn — Test the horn.

I am a biker lawyer who handles motorcycle accident cases in California. By this article I am throwing out some basic motorcycle safety tips. This article is not meant to debate helmet laws. I personally recommend using helmets, but I don’t endorse forcing my views on everyone. I believe in freedom of choice!

California Motorcycle Accident Center

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Riding your Motorcycle in the Rain; Don’t do it unless You Must!

Written on January 5, 2008 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Brakes, Cagers, California Motorcycle Accident, Editorial, Education, Fatal Motorcycle Accident, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Personal Injury, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses the dangers of riding your motorcycle in the rain. This is my first article of the New Year 2008. As I write this article California is enduring extraordinary rains which we are not accustomed to.

I was out yesterday riding my cage in the rain, and I saw a guy riding his motorcycle with normal street clothes on, tennis shoes, and a half helmet. I could not believe it. I would not ride in normal conditions wearing what this guy was wearing in a constant downpour of rain. He must have been soaked to the bone and very cold. Not good to say the least!

I have said many times in my articles that I do not ride my motorcycle in the rain unless I have no other choice. There have been many instances where I have been on the road and have had to ride through storms to get to my motel, or a safe place to wait out the rain.

Some of these instances of riding through the rain were severe, such as in Durango, Colorado, and in San Francisco, California. One time riding through the Arizona desert I literally ran into a thunderstorm out of no where that was so violent that it left welts on my face from hitting the rain at the speed I was riding at. Anyway…………..

If it is raining outside, it is probably a better idea to drive your car than ride your motorcycle. We have had a bad drought here in Southern California for the past couple of years, and when the rains come, the oils that have built up on the roads come to the surface of the road and make them slippery.

Since we only have two wheels on a motorcycle, a slippery road can mean disaster if your motorcycle slides out from under you.

Secondly, hydroplaning can make your ride a disaster as well. Hydroplaning occurs when water gets between your tires and the road surface. A layer of water builds between the rubber tires of the vehicle and the road surface, leading to the loss of traction and thus preventing the vehicle from responding to control inputs such as steering, braking or accelerating. It becomes, in effect, an un-powered and un-steered sled. Hydroplaning on a motorcycle with only 2 wheels in a heck of a lot different than in a car with 4 wheels, on a motorcycle it can mean disaster.

If you absolutely have to ride in the rain, my advice would be as follows:

(1) Wear full protective gear, including water proof boots, full face helmet, leather jacket, gloves, etc;

(2) Wear a good rain suit that is preferably designed for riding motorcycles in the rain;

(3) Do not accelerate or brake fast, take it easy;

(4) Leave plenty of room between you and the cars around you. Try to keep a very good distance between you and the cars or trucks in front of you because their spray will impact your visibility, and as you know on a motorcycle we do not have windshield wipers; and

(5) Take turns or curves very slowly and cautiously. It only takes a split second to eat asphalt if your motorcycle looses traction and goes out from under you.

Above all, do not ride beyond your comfort level. If it does not feel right, it probably is not right! In other words if you are riding in the rain, and you do not feel comfortable in the conditions, pull off and wait it out at a restaurant or some place like that if you can. I have been stuck in conditions which left me no choice but to ride or leave my motorcycle in the middle of no where. I chose to ride, but I rode cautiously!

One of my worst experiences was on the 101 freeway south of San Francisco when I got stuck in a torrential downpour at night. I did not have rain gear on, and the rain came out of no where. It was so bad that I could barley see anything and there were lots of cars doing 70mph plus. There was no safe place to stop or pull over. I had to ride it out. Luckily I made it to my hotel in one piece.

Do not let your friends or others assert peer pressure on you to ride your motorcycle in conditions which make you feel uncomfortable. I am not afraid to say “I do not ride in the rain unless I have to.”

Take it easy out there folks. It is supposed to be raining for the next few days here in California. Cage it if you can.

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Tags: biker lawyer, california motorycle accident attorney, california personal injury, News, rain, Riding Attire, riding rain

You Must Keep Yourself Hydrated while riding your motorcycle in This Hot Weather!

Written on August 17, 2007 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Editorial, Education, In The Wind, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

California Motorcycle Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses heat stroke while riding your motorcycle Even though it is almost the end of summer, it is scorching hot all over the country. The heat can lead to heat stroke or even death. The last thing you want to do is have a heat stroke while riding your motorcycle for obvious reasons.

When you are riding your motorcycle in very hot weather you dehydrate more than if you are in a car or just sitting around, lack of hydration and proper motorcycle riding attire in the heat can lead to you having a heat stroke.

You can read an article here about heat stroke and the symptoms to look out for.

It is very important to drink as much water as possible in this heat. I personally recommend a Gatorade type of drink if you are going to be riding your motorcycle in the heat. Force yourself to drink at every stop. If you feel like you are getting nauseous or dizzy, get off of the road and into an air conditioned environment as soon as possible.

Most people do not realize that wearing leathers in the heat can actually protect you against excessive loss of fluid in your body, and from the heat blast that you get while riding your motorcycle in hot weather.

It is deadly hot out there right now folks. Protect yourself!

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This Summer Riding Season is turning out to be a Real Meat Grinder!

Written on July 24, 2007 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Biker and Motorcycle Law, Brakes, Cagers, California Motorcycle Accident, Editorial, Education, General Legal, In The Wind, Maintenance, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Personal Injury, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle, Tires

California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez on Motorcycle Safety I am always preaching about motorcycle safety to everyone I know. I have written many articles on motorcycle safety here on the Biker Law Blog.

This summer is turning out to be the absolute worst motorcycle accident season that I have ever seen as a biker. I am gauging my analysis on the number of calls coming into my office, and reports of motorcycle accidents that I get from all over the world.

I assume that the rise in gas prices and the increase in motorcycle popularity are the main factors in the vast increase in accidents. However, I am getting calls from guys with many years of riding experience!

Whatever the cause of the vast increase in motorcycle accidents this summer may be, I will again reiterate some basic motorcycle safety tips:

(1) Do not ride your motorcycle until you take a certified Motorcycle Rider Safety Course.

(2) If you are an experienced rider, or you have purchased a new motorcycle, take an advanced Motorcycle Rider Safety Course. Remember you do not really know your motorcycle until you have ridden it at least 1000 miles.

(3) No matter how experienced you think you may be on your motorcycle, practice makes perfect. You must careful all of the time.

(4) Assume that cagers and people in other motor vehicles do not see you!

(5) Always wear a helmet, leathers, gloves, boots, and proper riding attire, even if it is hot. You may not look as cool, but if the meat hits the pavement, the pavement wins. It is always better to go home to ride another day.

(6) Do not tailgate Cars.

(7) Keep you motorcycle in gear when stopped, and always monitor your rear view mirrors for someone who looks like they are going to rear end you. Always plan an escape route at stop lights.

(8) Always cover when going through intersections. Assume that someone will turn left in front of you or blow through a red light.

(9) Make sure that your insurance is up to date and that you have at least $500,000 in liability, underinsured, and uninsured motorist coverage. It may cost a bit more, but if you do go down, you want to have enough insurance to cover your passenger, and you.

(10) Always keep an emergency card with you while riding. The emergency card should contain emergency contact names and numbers, relevant medical information such as blood type, medications, health problems, etc.

(11) NEVER DRINK ALCOHOL OR USE DRUGS WHEN RIDING YOUR MOTORCYCLE, PEROID!

(12) Always inspect your motorcycle and tires before riding. Look for loose screws, bolts, nuts and tighten them. Check your tires for pressure, and wear.

Riding your motorcycle can and should be one of the most pleasurable things in your life. Take it easy out there. Remember it is not the destination that matters; it is the ride that counts!

You can read many more safety tips here on the Biker Law Blog by clicking on the Safety Tips button on the top of the Blog.

Keep Both Wheels on the Road!

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Motorcycle Safety on the Road; They key is to be Seen and Use Common Sense!

Written on June 21, 2007 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, California Motorcycle Accident, Editorial, Education, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

California Personal Injury Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez on Motorcycle Safety. I just read an outstanding article by Stan Henderson, Indiana State University associate professor of health and safety. He states among other things that:

“Frequently, a vehicle will hit a motorcyclist because they don’t see them,” Henderson said. “This is partially due to the fact that they aren’t looking for them, but also because motorcyclists are just harder to see. This is why we have the law that motorcyclists have to have their headlight on all the time. It’s important for cyclists to be as conspicuous as possible.”

Most States have laws that require biker and riders of motorcycles to keep their headlight on at all times even during the day for this exact reason. Most if not all production motorcycles built these days do not have a switch to allow you to turn off the headlight. The light turns on with the motorcycle.

I have personally observed some motorcycles that have had a headlight switch installed to allow the headlight to be turned off. This is a huge mistake. Professor Henderson and I both agree that one of the keys to motorcycle safety is to be seen by cagers (people driving cars, trucks, SUV’s etc.)

Professor Henderson goes on to state in his article that: “There are several things riders can do to keep their excursions safe and enjoyable, according to Henderson:

- Gear: Wear light colors, with reflective materials on the upper body at night. Newer materials, such as mesh, keep the body cooler.

“We used to recommend leather,” Henderson said, “and while that provides protection, it also tends to hold in the heat.”

Body armor made with newer fabrics has key padding where a person might contact the roadway if they go off the cycle, Henderson says, and it’s not as hot.

Riding gear not recommended includes: shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, and flip-flops.

“If there is a crash, your bare skin is going to collide with the pavement, and we know which loses,” he said. “This will cause increased trauma to the body and there will be a less likely chance of full recovery.”

I highly recommend that you read Professor Henderson’s article on Motorcycle Safety by Clicking Here Now.

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Motorcycle Safety Pearls of Wisdom.

Written on May 27, 2007 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Cagers, Education, Motorcycle Safety Tips, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

Motorcycle Lawyer, Biker Lawyer, Norman Gregory Fernandez offers some motorcycle safety tips. I read an article somewhere with a list of the following Motorcycle Safely Pearls of Wisdom. I suggest that everyone reads each one!

Always assume other drivers can’t or don’t see you..

Just because a driver is looking at you, doesn’t mean that the driver sees you.

Always assume other drivers are going to do something wrong or stupid. Try to avoid being one of the “other” drivers!

Drivers making a left turn are the most dangerous.

Rush hour drivers all feel that their time is more important than your life.

All drivers think it is safe to pull out of their driveways without looking.

The likelihood that a driver will make a sudden left turn or lane change increases dramatically as you prepare to pass.

On one way streets, it is the driver in the furthest right lane who will most need to make a left turn.

Every intersection is a race for your life. Remember: At the turn of the 20th century there were only two cars in all of Kansas and they collided at an intersection!

Basically, assume that all drivers are out on the road trying to kill you. Submitted for your consideration–Rep. Bill Janklow of South Dakota!

Never let anyone convince, coerce, or shame you into riding without a helmet if that’s your choice. There is no ride straight enough, short enough, or slow enough to be safe.

I’ve seen riders killed while standing still at a stoplight when they were knocked over and hit their heads on the pavement!

Never get in a hurry. Never be afraid to slow down. Better to avoid an accident than to be in one.

Superior riders use superior knowledge and superior experience to avoid situations that require superior skill.

Never ride when you are too tired, hungry, or thirsty. You can pay attention or you can pay an undertaker.

Never argue with an 18-wheeler, especially around interstate on ramps.

The longer you take to pass an 18-wheeler, the more likely it is that one of its tires will explode just as you pass along side.

Never be too proud to unlearn an old habit.

Never be too proud to take a motorcycle training course.

Just because you knew how to ride a 175cc when you were 19 doesn’t mean you know how to ride a “Fat Boy” at 49.

Always ride straight and sober. Keep 8 hours between bottle and throttle. Thirty-one percent of all traffic fatalities and 41% of holiday traffic fatalities involve alcohol.

Drivers talking on cell phones are just as dangerous as drunk drivers.

Never outrun your headlight. Deer and other animals will always insist on the right of way.

Don’t just dress for the ride; dress for the fall.

There’s no satisfaction in being right if you are dead right.

Keep less experienced riders near the front and more experienced riders at the back of a group ride.

The last rider in a group always has to drive 80 to keep up with a lead rider who is going 65. Never outrun your skill level. Drop out of the group and enjoy the peace and solitude of a solo ride.

Slow drivers will always speed up as you try to pass them. Fast drivers will always slow down once they pass and pull in front of you

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

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The Importance of applying a Sunscreen or Sunblock Lotion before Riding Your Motorcycle.

Written on May 15, 2007 by Norman Gregory Fernandez in Articles, Editorial, Education, In The Wind, Riding Attire, Riding Your Motorcycle

Motorcycle Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez discusses wearing sunscreen while riding your motorcycle If any of you have ridden your motorcycle in the sun, without applying sunscreen lotion like I have, you may have learned the hard way at the end of the day that you have been fried to a crisp. There is nothing worse than having bad sunburn, especially on overnight or multi-day motorcycle runs.

The suffering of a sunburn can be prevented by simply apply sunscreen lotion before and during your motorcycle rides!

I am not going to write a scientific article on sunscreen or sunblock lotions. You can do a Google, Yahoo, or MSN search on sunscreens to find out all about them. You can read a good article about sunscreen lotions by clicking here.

The bottom line is that these sunscreen lotions do in fact protect you from getting sunburned. I can attest to this from first hand experience. If you are going to ride, you need to protect yourself and your skin unless you want to look like a wrinkled up old sun burned prune.

Maybe it is just me, but it seems as though the Sun burns your skin much quicker than it used to. This might have something to do with the decrease in the Ozone layer of the atmosphere, or maybe it is just me getting older.

In anycase, riding your motorcycle will be much more pleasurable if you apply sunscreen lotion 15 to 30 minutes before you ride, and every couple of hours thereafter. I have found that anything above SPF 35 is the best if you don’t want to get sunburned.

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