The Devastating Effects of a Motorcycle Accident vs. a Car Accident – Why You Need a Biker Lawyer Who Rides Like You
By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

When it comes to traffic collisions, not all accidents are created equal. The difference between a motorcycle accident and a car accident is not just in size or mechanics—it’s in the severity of the injuries, the complexity of the case, and the way the law treats motorcyclists. As an attorney with nearly three decades of experience handling personal injury cases across California—and a biker myself—I can tell you firsthand: when a motorcycle accident happens, everything changes.

At The Law Offices of Norman Gregory Fernandez, we understand that motorcycle accidents are not just “smaller car accidents.” They are unique, often catastrophic, and require a specialized approach to ensure that victims receive the compensation they are legally entitled to.

The Grim Reality: Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents

Let’s be blunt. In a car, you’re protected by seatbelts, airbags, crumple zones, and a steel frame. On a motorcycle, you have none of those things. When a crash occurs, the motorcyclist is likely to be thrown from the bike, suffer direct impact with the road or another object, or get pinned beneath a vehicle. The human body simply cannot absorb that kind of trauma without serious consequences.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles, and 4 times more likely to be injured. Even a “minor” motorcycle accident can result in major injuries like:

• Traumatic brain injuries (even with a helmet)

• Spinal cord damage and paralysis

• Fractured or shattered bones

• Road rash that leads to infections and permanent scarring

• Loss of limbs

• Internal organ damage

Car accident victims may suffer injuries, but they rarely face the kind of catastrophic physical and emotional trauma that a biker does.

Legal Differences: Motorcycle Accidents Require a Specialized Strategy

The law is supposed to be blind, but when it comes to motorcyclists, there is often an unfair bias. Insurance companies and even juries may perceive bikers as reckless or dangerous, simply because they ride. That stigma can dramatically affect your case if you don’t have the right legal representation.

As an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who actually rides, I know how to combat those stereotypes in court. I know how to explain to a jury that lane-splitting is legal in California. I know how to prove that the biker wasn’t speeding or weaving through traffic irresponsibly—but that they were injured because a negligent driver failed to yield, check their blind spot, or respect the motorcyclist’s right to the road.

These are details that a generic personal injury lawyer may overlook. But to me, they’re second nature.

The Damages Motorcycle Accident Victims Are Entitled To

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, California law entitles you to full and fair compensation for your losses. This includes:

• Medical Expenses (past, present, and future): Surgeries, rehab, assistive devices, physical therapy

• Loss of Income: Wages lost during recovery and future earning potential if you’re disabled

• Pain and Suffering: For the immense physical pain and emotional distress you endure

• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and gear

• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from doing what you love—riding, working, or even walking

• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct

Unfortunately, insurance companies will almost always try to minimize these payouts. They’ll argue your injuries aren’t as bad as you claim, or that you were somehow at fault. That’s where I come in.

How a Biker Lawyer Like Me Gets You Maximum Compensation

I’m not just any lawyer—I’m Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, and I ride just like you. I understand the risks you take on the road, and I understand the passion that drives you to ride in the first place. That perspective is invaluable in the courtroom and during settlement negotiations.

When I take on your case, I fight like it was my own life on the line—because in a way, it is. As a fellow rider, I take every case personally. Here’s what sets me apart:

• Immediate Investigation: We act fast to preserve evidence like traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstructions.

• Top Medical Experts: We work with leading doctors to evaluate the full scope of your injuries and treatment needs.

• Aggressive Negotiation: I don’t back down. I’ve gone up against the biggest insurance companies and won.

• Trial-Ready Representation: If they won’t pay what you’re owed, I’ll take your case to court—prepared, experienced, and ready to win.

You deserve more than just a lawyer—you deserve a biker lawyer who gets it.

You Are Not Alone

A motorcycle accident can change your life in an instant. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial devastation are overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone.

At The Law Offices of Norman Gregory Fernandez, we’ve helped countless bikers across California get the justice they deserve. I ride. I understand. And I will fight for you like no one else can.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact me now for a free consultation. You can reach me directly through my website at www.bikerlawblog.com or www.thepersonalinjury.com.

Let me put my experience, knowledge, and passion as a fellow biker to work for you.

Ride safe. Ride smart. And if the worst happens—call the lawyer who rides like you.
Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
www.BikerLawBlog.com | www.ThePersonalInjury.com

The post The Devastating Effects of a Motorcycle Accident vs. a Car Accident – Why You Need a Biker Lawyer Who Rides Like You first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
www.BikerLawBlog.com

As a lifelong biker, motorcycle accident attorney, and someone who has ridden just about every type of motorcycle imaginable, I can tell you from experience: trying to lean like you’re on a sportbike while riding a fully loaded cruiser is a one-way ticket to the pavement—or worse.

Whether you’re cruising on a Harley-Davidson Road Glide, an Indian Springfield, or any other heavyweight bagger with engine guards, floorboards, and hard saddlebags, you need to understand one thing: the design and clearance of your bike limit your lean angle—period.

Why Leaning Too Far on a Cruiser is Dangerous

1. Low Ground Clearance

Cruiser motorcycles are not built like sportbikes. Sportbikes have high seats, rear-set pegs, and are purpose-built for high lean angles in tight curves. Cruisers, on the other hand, prioritize comfort and long-distance stability, often at the expense of ground clearance.

When you lean too far:

• Engine guards, floorboards, exhaust pipes, and saddlebags can touch down.

• This contact can unweight your tires and cause the bike to slide.

• If a hard part hits the ground and acts as a pivot, it can lift the rear wheel, leading to a loss of control and a high-side or low-side crash.

2. Imbalanced Weight Distribution

Large cruisers can weigh 800 pounds or more. With saddlebags, gear, and sometimes a passenger, the center of gravity is relatively high and rearward. Trying to execute aggressive lean angles on such a bike shifts that balance in dangerous ways, especially if:

• The road is uneven or has gravel.

• The tires are not properly warmed up.

• You’re entering the turn too fast for the geometry of your motorcycle.

3. Saddlebag Interference

Many riders forget: your bags stick out more than your body. In tight turns, especially downhill or on unfamiliar roads, it’s not uncommon for hard saddlebags to:

• Scrape the pavement.

• Hit curbs or roadside obstacles.

• Catch a lip in the road and wrench the bike off its line.

Real-World Crashes I’ve Seen as an Attorney

In my law practice, I’ve represented many riders who went down trying to corner too hard on heavy cruisers. In most cases:

• They scraped engine guards or pipes mid-turn.

• The rear wheel lifted slightly, broke traction, and the bike slid out from under them.

• Some ended up under their bikes with fractured legs, ankles, or road rash from the slide.

In some tragic cases, the rider was ejected into traffic or a guardrail. All because they tried to take a corner like they were on a Ducati when they were riding a full-dress Harley.

How to Ride a Cruiser Safely Through Turns

Let’s get into the practical advice.

 1. Slow In, Smooth Out

Approach all turns at a speed that’s appropriate for your skill, the bike, and the conditions. Do most of your braking before you enter the turn. A large cruiser is happiest when you:

• Brake in a straight line.

• Roll through the turn with light throttle.

• Look through the turn, not at the pavement.

 2. Use Countersteering, Not Body Lean

You don’t need to hang off the side of your cruiser like you’re Valentino Rossi. Instead, gently countersteer:

• Push on the right handlebar to turn right.

• Push on the left to turn left.

• Let the bike lean under you, while keeping your body relatively upright.

This method keeps your center of gravity balanced and avoids scraping parts.

 3. Know Your Lean Limits

Check your manual or forums for your bike’s maximum lean angle. Most cruisers are limited to 25–32 degrees. That’s far less than a sportbike, which can go over 50 degrees.

Some models have warning tabs on the floorboards that scrape before hard parts touch down. If you hear grinding metal, you’re at the edge of your bike’s safety envelope.

 4. Be Wary of Road Conditions

Painted lines, gravel, tar snakes, and oil patches are particularly dangerous in turns. A heavy cruiser doesn’t recover from a traction loss easily. Take care when turning:

• At night (visibility issues).

• In the rain.

• On unfamiliar or uneven roads.

A Final Word of Advice

Leaning too far in turns on a cruiser with engine guards and saddlebags is not only pointless, it’s dangerous. You’re not going to out-corner a sportbike on a 900-lb touring rig—and you shouldn’t try. These bikes are made for cruising, not carving.

If you ride smart, keep your inputs smooth, and respect the physical limits of your machine, you’ll have a long and enjoyable time on two wheels. But if you push it too far, you could end up hurt, in court, or worse.

Ride safe. Ride smart. And if someone else’s negligence causes your crash, call me—Norman Gregory Fernandez. I’m a biker who knows the law and will fight for your rights.

Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
California Motorcycle Accident Attorney
www.BikerLawBlog.com
www.thepersonalinjury.com
Call: (800) 816-1529 Ext. 1

The post Why It’s Stupid to Lean Too Far in Turns on Cruiser-Style Motorcycles with Engine Guards and Saddlebags first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not use an ordinary personal injury attorney. There are some important things you need to do in order to get the compensation that you deserve.

High performance motorcycles account for disproportionate number of accident insurance claims

High performance sport-style motorcycles account for a disproportionate number of accident insurance claims. Their designs, speeds, and weights make them more vulnerable to accidents.

Unlike passenger cars, motorcycles lack airbags, seatbelts, and metal frames. They also have less crash worthiness than other vehicles, making them more likely to be involved in an accident. In fact, the risk of a serious injury in a motorcycle crash is 27 times greater than that of a passenger car.

Motorcycle crashes are often traumatic, especially for the motorcyclist. In addition, they are much harder to stop than other types of accidents. If you have been in an accident, it is important to consult an attorney. They can help you navigate the complex court system and manage the compensation process.

It is important to remember that the value of your motorcycle accident case varies depending on the type of injury you have and how much your life has been affected. A good attorney will be able to help you determine the right amount of compensation for your situation.

Uninsured/underinsured motorists coverage is inadequate for motorcycle accidents

If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured driver, it’s time to take action. You may be able to sue your insurance company and recover compensation for injuries you sustained. However, you must know the right information first.

Uninsured motorist coverage, or UIM, is a policy that compensates drivers and riders for damages incurred in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Unfortunately, some drivers ignore the law and don’t carry sufficient insurance to cover their losses. This can leave victims with medical bills and wages to pay off.

In California, the law requires that all motorists have at least $15,000 in liability coverage. While this might be adequate for less serious accidents, it’s not always enough to cover the costs of more severe injuries.

You may be owed compensation for lost wages after a motorcycle accident

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in New York, you may be entitled to compensation. This depends on the extent of your injuries, your medical bills, and the amount of time you missed work. A lawyer can help you pursue compensation.

Generally, if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you will be able to get compensation for your medical bills and lost wages. But the process can be complicated. You need an experienced attorney to help you navigate the legal system.

In addition to your own insurance company, you can also seek compensation from other parties. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will know the steps you need to take to make sure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

First, you need to determine who was at fault for the crash. An experienced motorcycle attorney will know how to identify the responsible party.

You may be owed compensation for punitive damages

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you’re entitled to compensation for damages. This includes pain and suffering and punitive damages. You can pursue these damages with the help of an experienced attorney.

The value of your claim is determined by several factors. They include the type of injury, the economic impact of the injuries, and whether or not your injuries will prevent you from working in the future.

In a motor vehicle accident, an at-fault party’s negligence is responsible for your injuries. For example, if the at-fault party fails to stop at a traffic light, you may be able to claim punitive damages.

There are two types of damages: economic and non-economic. These types of damages are also referred to as special and general damages. Often, an attorney needs to seek the services of experts to determine the causes of the accident.

Get medical help after a motorcycle accident

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need to get medical help right away. The right treatment can prevent serious injuries and set you on the path to recovery. However, if you wait too long, you may suffer from delayed symptoms, which can make your recovery longer and more painful.

To get medical help after a motorcycle accident, call 9-1-1 and describe the details of your accident to the dispatcher. They will send an EMT to the scene and take note of the circumstances of your crash.

Your doctor will evaluate your condition and make recommendations about how to recover. He or she may also refer you to other medical providers. For example, you may need to see an orthopedic doctor.

Motorcycle accidents can cause multiple serious traumatic injuries. These can range from broken bones to traumatic brain injury. Some of these are obvious and others may be less visible.

By California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez
www.injuredbikers.com

The post Do Not Use an Ordinary Personal Injury Attorney for a Motorcycle Accident first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Where I am from in California, we have year-round riding, although many parts of California do not. Around this time of the year, when the snow has melted all over California, or is still in the process of melting in some places, I see an increase in motorcycle accidents, especially fatal motorcycle accidents.

There has been an increase in the purchase of smaller Street motorcycles, as well as sport motorcycles, and a decrease in the sale of what I would call bagger or cruiser type motorcycles.

Guys and gals riding Street or sport types of motorcycles for some reason tend to be more aggressive when they are driving, then people riding the bigger bagger or cruiser style motorcycle. I have been riding motorcycles for over 40 years, and I understand the tendency to be more aggressive on a smaller more nimble motorcycle.

I just talked to a guy that was involved in a motorcycle accident on street motorcycle, and it was not a nice discussion. The guy was seriously injured, and it appears he was at fault in the accident.

Although you may hear many people say that you never forget to learn how to ride a bike, the fact of the matter is if you have been off your motorcycle for even a couple of weeks, it takes some time to get used to riding again, I don’t care how long you have been riding motorcycles.

So, when you have a combination of people who have not ridden a motorcycle for a while, coupled with people on smaller more nimble sport and Street motorcycles, you have a recipe for disaster if you do not take it easy.

Many people who read the Biker Law Blog, and who have read my articles, know my mantra about how to be safe on a motorcycle, “Always Ride Like You Are Invisible.” What this means is that as you are riding, pretend that the other motorist on the road cannot see you. This will make you much more safer than if you assume, they do see you.

If you are on a smaller sport or street motorcycle, take it easy. I know it is very easy to accelerate fast, split lanes, and be more aggressive. Trust me when I tell you that you do not want to go down in traffic on the street. Often times these types of motorcycle accidents are catastrophic to the rider.

If you have been out of the saddle for a couple weeks or more, take it easy, get your skills back before you put yourself in a major traffic situation.

Here in Southern California where I live, when you get on the freeway during most times of the day, it is harrie on a motorcycle. The newer cars can easily do 100 miles an hour, and most cars are driving faster than 65 mph. In other words, you have to have your Shit together on a Southern California Freeway on your motorcycle.

If you have been out of the saddle for a couple weeks, practice on some sidestreets to get your muscle memory back venture out onto the freeway.

Take it easy out there. Although I am a motorcycle accident attorney, I do not like to see motorcycle accidents. I am a real motorcycle rider like you, and any real motorcycle rider hates to see other motorcycle riders go down on her motorcycles.

God forbid if you have had a motorcycle accident anywhere in California, give me a call 7 days a week 24 hours a day at 800-816-1529. Do not delay the phone call because the longer you take to call me, the more you prejudice your case. This is a subject for another article come in the future.

By California motorcycle accident lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., May 13, 2019

The post With motorcycle riding season comes many motorcycle accidents; how you ride determines your safety, by California motorcycle accident lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

As a motorcycle accident and a personal injury attorney, I run across people all the time who just want to pick my brain for information thinking that they will try to handle their personal injury or motorcycle accident case without an attorney. I always think to myself, “what an idiot.”

First off, I can pretty much tell when somebody wants to retain an attorney as opposed to when someone just wants to pick my brain for information.

Let’s say you need an appendectomy or knee surgery; would you try to do the surgery on yourself? Of course not. What makes you think you can handle a complex motorcycle accident case, or a personal injury case on your own? We attorneys are Juris Doctors, who have gone to Law School for 3 to 4 year, then passed the hardest Bar exam in the nation and then specialize in different areas of the law just like medical doctors specializing in different areas of medicine. Attorneys who specialize in personal injury and let’s a motorcycle accident cases are different from attorneys who specialize in real estate.

Personal injury law is a highly complex area of the law which is not something that you can just willy-nilly do a Google search on and figure out without a high degree of education and training. The insurance company will never take you seriously, and when you approach them without an attorney,  they will know they have a sucker on the hook when you call them without an attorney.

Everything you say can and will be used against you in your case. You can completely blow your case and not even know it by talking to the insurance company on your own.

In almost every instance you will get more money with a personal injury attorney than trying to handle a case on your own. Don’t be a fool, get a lawyer on your personal injury, motorcycle accident case, or other injury case.

We at the law offices of Norman Gregory Fernandez are here to help you on your personal injury or motorcycle accident case you may call us anytime at 800-816-1529. You may go to our personal injury website at www.thepersonalinjury.com . If you had a motorcycle accident you may call us at 800-816-1529, or you may go to our website at www.injuredbikers.com .

By California Personal Injury Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

The post Don’t Be the Fool Who Tries to Represent Themselves in A Personal Injury Case first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

The most dangerous place to ride any motorcycle is on city streets and roads, whereas highways and freeways are the safest place to ride your motorcycle. Most motorcycle accidents occur on city streets and roads.

It is imperative as a motorcycle rider to understand how to actually ride your motorcycle on city streets in order to be safe.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez

Obviously, you will want to wear proper motorcycle riding equipment when riding your motorcycle. This article is not about proper motorcycle riding attire, if you want to look at that subject, simply search for it by going to the top of the page and typing in on the search box. You can also click on the motorcycle safety tab above and scroll down to the category.

Wearing proper motorcycle safety attire when riding on city streets is a huge issue when riding on city streets and is a major factor if you get into an accident. The only protection you have while riding a motorcycle is what you’re wearing.

As a motorcycle accident lawyer, and a personal injury lawyer, I have personally handled over a thousand injury cases over a 21 year plus legal career as an attorney.

For the most part most motorcycle and car accidents happen within a few miles from your house. This is no coincidence. The operators of motorcycles and cars tend to be more complacent when they are closer to their home. When they are familiar with the streets they are on, they tend to be less cautious. When you are less cautious, that’s when accidents will occur.

For a motorcycle rider the most important thing you can do as a rider on city streets or any other type of highway, is to pretend like you are invisible. I repeat, pretend that you are invisible. If you act like nobody else on the road can see you, that in of itself will prevent 90% of accidents in my opinion.

Many accidents happen when a motorcycle rider assumes that a car or other vehicle sees them. For instance, you can be riding down a street, and you see a car waiting to make a right turn out of a shopping center driveway. You obviously have the right of way because you are riding down the street in your lane, the other car is supposed to wait until you pass to make their turn, all of a sudden the car pulls out in front of you, you hit the brakes hard, you lay it down or slam into the car because you have no time to react.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez in Sturgis 2014

Let’s say you are riding down the road, and you see an oncoming car in the left-hand turn lane. You assume they must see you because you are right in front of them, and then suddenly, they make a left turn right in front of you, and you either lay your motorcycle down or hit them.

In both of these instances, although the motorcycle rider is not at fault, the accident for the most part can be prevented if you assume the car that’s pulling out of the driveway, or the car that’s making a left-hand turn in the opposite direction, doesn’t see you.

There have been many studies on the subject and for some reason most motorists in vehicles sometimes referred to by motorcycle riders as (cagers), do not see motorcycles like they do other cars. For some reason the human mind either blocks them out, or in some way causes us not to see motorcycles on the road. Obviously once you become conscious of a motorcycle that’s riding near you if your in a car, hopefully you will pay attention to it and be careful. I am talking about the motorists who does not see the motorcycle rider.

It does not matter if you have the right-of-way, it does not matter if you are not at fault. What matters is if you’re able to go home with your motorcycle intact, rather than going to the hospital with a catastrophic injury.

If you ride your motorcycle defensively, and pretend that you are invisible, you’ll be much safer on the road.

I always recommend when appropriate, when you see a car about to turn out of the driveway either in front of you, or in the left-hand turn lane in front of you, to let off the accelerator, and cover your brake.

Covering your brake simply consists of putting your hand over the brake and putting your foot above the brake pedal if you do not have a coupled braking system. That way if you do have to stop suddenly you save at least a half second or more which could be all the difference in an emergency situation.

When you are approaching a car that is about to turn our of a driveway or street on your side of the road, do not look at the driver of the car or the actual car, look at the wheels, especially the hubs, or the hubcap. If you see them moving hit the brake and stop unless it is not safe to do so because of the car behind you.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez riding Yellowstone National Forest, August 2016

If it is not safe to stop, move into the adjoining Lane. You may also hit the horn and flash your brights to get the car that is about to turn of a driveway or streets attention.

If you see the cars wheels moving, there’s a good chance this driver does not see you and they’re going to turn out in front of you. It is better to be safe than sorry.

I hit the horn quite a bit when I am not sure of what a car or other vehicle may do, because I care more about myself, my passenger, and my motorcycle, then irritating somebody by hitting the horn. On some motorcycles the stock horn is not loud enough for vehicles with their windows rolled up to hear. There are plenty of aftermarket horn solutions for all types of motorcycles to remedy this problem.

When you are approaching a signal and you see a car in the opposite direction in a left-hand turn lane, as I said above, assume they do not see you.

I also look at the wheels in this scenario, but I also looked at the car as well. In the case of a car making a left, just like I stated above, let off the throttle, and cover your brake in case you suddenly have to stop.

If you see the wheels on the vehicle turning as you are approaching, or you see the vehicle moving even the slightest bit, stop if you can. If you cannot safely stop, then you want to try to move to the furthest Lane away from the left-hand turn maker, hit your horn and flash your brights.

If the single is turning yellow, try to stop if you can safely do so. Often times cars will making a left-hand turn will automatically start turning when the light turns yellow, and with you on a motorcycle there is a good chance they’re not going to see you. What is more important, waiting a few minutes at a stoplight, or blowing through a yellow light? I cannot stress how dangerous cars making left turns in front of you are enough. Do what you have to do to survive.

The goal here is to pretend like you are invisible and do everything you can to anticipate that the car or other vehicle will in fact turn directly in front of you.

In the vast majority of cases the car or vehicle may not turn in front of you, but if they do, you will be ready, you will know what to do, and you will go home safe with your motorcycle unharmed.

Keep your head on a swivel. This is not just some buzzword or term, it is a physical act which will save your life. I don’t care how busy you are, or how focused you are, the only way to safely ride motorcycles on city streets is to keep your head on a swivel. You should be constantly scanning everything in front of you, on the side of you, and behind you through your rearview mirrors.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez in Malibu with friends.

Sometimes on a motorcycle you get into what I call a meditative state. Even experienced motorcycle riders have this occur. It’s almost like tunnel vision. This is kind of ok if you are on highways or freeways, but it is a death trap on city streets and roads. Always scan your surroundings and your rearview mirrors when you’re on a motorcycle on city streets and roads.

If you see that a car is tailgating you, put your left hand up, and then make a up down motion as though you’re pushing something down in attempt to get the car’s attention, and to get them to slow down.

Sometimes tailgaters intentionally tailgate because they are in a rush, they are not paying attention, or they could be in a road rage type of frame of mind. If the up-and-down motion with your left hand does not work to get them to back off, move to the other closest Lane as soon as and as safely as possible.

Make sure you use your turn signal first, because the tailgater may also have the same idea and suddenly change lanes into the same lane you are going into.

I know you have the right of way, I know that you should not have to change lanes just because somebody is tailgating you, but sometimes even the toughest guys on motorcycles have to eat their ego to be safe.

The theme here is it’s better to be safe than sorry. I have had to actually pull over in this scenario many times. It is okay if you are upset and angry. It is okay if it is not fair that you have to pull over or switch lanes. I understand you want to kick their ass. It’s a hell of a lot better to switch lanes, or pullover, then to be sitting in some trauma center. Beware of the tailgater.

The theme of riding your motorcycle safely on city streets and roads, is to act like you are invisible, and to anticipate that the other vehicles on the road with you, will do everything they can to take you out. If you see a tailgater, anticipate that he or she will rear end you. If you see somebody turning out of a driveway, or making a left-hand turn, assume they do not see you and that they will turn in front of you.

Do not tailgate cars while riding your motorcycle. Always leave a safe enough distance between the car in front of you and your motorcycle so that you can fully stop if the car suddenly stops. Anticipate that the car in front of you may suddenly stop.

Riding the speed limit is critical to being safe on city streets and roads when you’re on your motorcycle. Yes, we motorcycle riders can usually go a lot faster than cars. However, you may have noticed, that the cars these days are much faster than they used to be. Guys that are riding cruiser style motorcycles will find that cars accelerate just as fast as you do from stop signs and turn signals.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez in Yellowstone, 2014

City streets and roads are not speedways, they are a transportation medium only.

Motorcycles unlike cars or other motor vehicles, only have 2 wheels for traction. Unlike car tires that are flat, almost all motorcycle tires are curved. What this means is that motorcycles may have 1 to 2 inches at the most of actual rubber on the pavement. Motorcycles cannot stop as fast as cars, nor are they as safe as cars in an accident scenario.

Riding the speed limit although boring at times, especially since motorcycles can accelerate very quickly, is a major factor in being safe on city streets and roads. You will find that if you ride the speed limit, you will be able to stop when you need to, you are less likely to get into a car accident.

When approaching a red light or stop sign, or slowing or stopped traffic, always look in your rear view mirrors to ensure that you are not going to be rear ended by a car or other vehicle that does not see you. Leave enough distance between the car in front of you, so that you can escape from your lane if you think you might be rear ended by the vehicle behind you. Basically make a lane escape plan each time you are slowing, or stopped, just in case. Leave your motorcycle in gear with clutch in so you can escape the rear ender fast if you have to.

Finally, there is the factor of not wanting to ride directly next to people in cars, yet not being able to move away from cars because of traffic. Every motorcycle safety course tells you to not ride directly next to cars or trucks, etc. When you are on city streets and roads, in traffic, going the speed limit or stopped, there is no way to avoid other vehicles.

If I am forced to ride next to a car or vehicle on city streets and roads, I always like to make sure that I am near the driver side window or at least up to the drivers window if the car is on the left-hand side of me, to make sure that the driver actually sees me.

Many times, you will see that the driver is texting on their phone, holding their phone up to their ear, with their windows rolled up, and they flat out don’t see or hear you. I will give my motorcycle a couple run of revs on the throttle to get their attention. Sometimes you don’t get their attention, but at least you tried.

If I see somebody texting on their phone or talking on their phone with the phone to their ear, I will hit my horn really quick to get their attention while I’m riding.

I hope these safety tips will help you get home or to your destination on your motorcycle when riding on city streets and roads.

If any of you have any other safety suggestions feel free to comment below.

By Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez, November 2018.

The post The Art of Safely Riding Your Motorcycle on The Street, by California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez at Sturgis 2015

I have been a personal injury attorney for almost 20 years. I have been riding motorcycles over 40 years. The one thing I can say for certain is that a motorcycle with 2 wheels, has much less traction than a car with 4 wheels.

Further, a motorcycle wheel has much less traction than a car wheel, because the motorcycle wheel is rounded, whereas a car tire l is flatter and has more area of rubber on the pavement.

With that being said, it’s very important for motorcycle riders to not tailgate, and to keep a safe distance and speed from the car in front of them, so they can stop in case the car comes to a sudden and unexpected stop.

I know of many instances where individual riders, groups of riders, and even motorcycle clubs have had mass accidents, because the people in the front are tailgating or riding to close to the cars in front, the car suddenly braked, causing a chain reaction crash.

I just gave a consultation to a gentleman who in his mind thought he was not at fault, when he had to lay his motorcycle down on a freeway on-ramp because the car in front of him came to a sudden stop.

Apparently there was a crosswalk on the on-ramp, and a pedestrian was within 20 feet of the crosswalk when the car stopped. In the biker’s mind, the car should not have stopped for the pedestrian. It never occurred to him that he should have kept a safe distance from the car in front of him so that in case the car stopped he could stop.

I had to tell him that it was he, the motorcycle rider, that was at fault in that instance.

Not only do motorcycles take more time to stop in an emergency situation than a car because of less traction area on the pavement, but the consequences of crashing can be catastrophic to motorcycle riders.

Basically it’s not worth your life. I know guys who tailgate when they ride. It drives me crazy to ride with these guys, and I absolutely will not stay with them, I will stay back so that in case the cars brake they’re going to eat the back of the car not me.

Ensure that you keep a safe distance and speed from the car in front of you, and anticipate that the car may slow down or suddenly stop. If you ride with this in mind you will be a safer motorcycle rider.

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © February 2, 2016

The post The dangers of following too close while riding a motorcycle first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Motorcycle accidents can be tragic as well as upsetting events.

The stats speak for themselves. Serious bodily harm as well as death is often the result of a motorcycle accident. Of the actual motorcycle accidents that do occur, roughly one out of every five motorcycle riders is actually fortunate enough to come away from the experience with just minimal bumps, bruises and abrasions. The lack of a protective buffer around the biker and the road inevitably leaves bikers in a very vulnerable situation. Generally there tend to be many common causes of motorcycle accidents, of which the most frequent, and clearly the predominant cause, is definitely a consequence of other motor vehicle drivers to some extent not seeing and recognizing motorcycles within dense traffic.

A number of reports offer support to this particular claim because they advise that virtually 66 % of almost all accidents involving a motorcycle and another car or truck are a direct end result of the motorist in a vehicle turning into the lane of the motorcycle and violating the motorcyclist’s right of way. It has likewise been advised that motorcyclists are 27 times more prone to die in a collision than are people in the other car or truck and they are also five times more prone to sustain an injury. Anyone can see then, the disastrous effects of car-motorcycle accidents.

Additional causative factors

Generally there tend to be a wealth of additional factors behind motorcycle accidents that occur quite frequently. One in particular can be motorcyclists who are inexperienced and simply do not know the constraints of their machine These brand-new riders push their motorcycles to the limit, which, in many cases, far exceeds the speed limit. This brings about another major reason for motorcycle accidents. Needless to say, speeding is not only restricted to new and young motorcycle riders, as often older and more experienced motorcycle riders have been also guilty of operating their motorcycles past the speed limit. Many motorcyclists really like the feel of the wind blowing through their hair, the freedom associated with the open road and the thrill associated with riding fast just inches from the road however,, traveling over the speed limit can result in dire consequences. A quick slip of the handlebars or an unforeseen obstacle ahead of the motorcycle can easily send the motorcycle reeling out of control. Therefore, speeding can be extremely dangerous and it’s also frequently the reason for many motorcycle accidents.

An additional common cause of motorcycle accidents can be a consequence of the motorcyclist’s carelessness. In cases where the motorcycle accident does not include another car, truck, or vehicle, the failure of the motorcycle rider to reduce speed when making a turn or simply under-turning as well as over braking in the turn are causes of motorcycle accidentrs in some instances. There can to be many various other things that may cause physical harm to the motorcycle rider after the initial motorcycle accident. Fuel leakage and spills in the post-crash phase can introduce a fire hazard and are common within approximately 60 % of all accidents sites.

Be careful out there when riding your motorcycle.

Riding within 5 miles per hour of the speed limit and wearing proper protection as well as a good helmet can make your ride more enjoyable, and increase your odds of survival in the event you are in an accident.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident anywhere in the State of California, call the real California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez for a free consultation at 800-816-1529 x. 1.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney and Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez

The post Common Factors Behind Motorcycle Accidents first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

 ** December 19, 2011 Update: I regret to inform you that David Landowski the rider of  the motorcyle, age 53, died of his injuries Sunday night. May he rest in peace.

The following news was reported today as a short blurb in the press.

Northridge – California A motorcyclist suffered severe injuries during a two-vehicle crash in Northridge, California police said today.

The traffic accident occurred about 6 p.m. Friday at the intersection of Lindley Avenue and Rayen Street, according to the Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Traffic Division.

According to police, Charles Giarratana, 62, driving a red Ford Explorer northbound on Lindley Avenue made a left turn onto Rayen Street where he struck David Landowski, 53, who was going southbound on Lindley Avenue on a white and purple-colored KTM 620SX motorcycle.

Landowski, a resident of Canyon Country, was transported to an area hospital with severe injuries. It was not immediately known if Giarratana, a resident of Reseda, was cited or arrested. Anyone who saw the traffic crash was asked to call the LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division at (818) 644-8036.

The only people who would probably read and care about news such as this are people that ride motorcycles, their friends and family, and the people in the article.

It is doubtful that average people would even read let alone care about a man on a motorcycle being hit by a negligent idiot in an SUV.

For me, a California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer and an actual motorcycle rider, this article brings forth many thoughts.

The vast majority of motorcycle accidents on city streets are caused by some idiot making left turns in front of or into a motorcycle rider because they do not look for motorcyclist, they do not see the motorcyclist, or they think they can beat the motorcyclist before they turn.

The innocent motorcyclist may not even see the negligent driver making the left turn until they are right in front of them, or not at all.

Their life is changed in an instant.

I wonder if David Landowski riding his KTM 620SX motorcycle saw Charles Giarratna turning before he hit him? I wonder if Charles Giarratna has any clue what damage he has caused to the life of David Landowski simply because he did not look before he made the turn, or tried to turn before David rode past him?

Either way one thing is certain, David Landowski’s life will never be the same again.

The newspaper article stated that David Landowski was transported to the hospital with severe injuries. I pray for him and his family that he will survive. If he does survive he will probably suffer months or even years of excruciating pain, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress, not to mention loss of income, a career, or a job, tremendous medical bills, and maybe not ever being able to return to a normal life.

Some riders such as David will never be able to ride a motorcycle again, some lose limbs, some suffer permanent debilitating injuries, and some never recover.

So the next time you read a little news blurb about some idiot making a left hand turn in front of a motorcycle rider and hitting him or causing the motorcycle rider to hit the car or truck because the car turned in front of the motorcycle, think about the fact that the motorcycle rider’s life was changed in an instant.

There is tremendous human pain and suffering, support to family lost, and life’s irreparably harmed in such little news blurbs.

The next time you are out riding in your car, SUV, truck, etc., look for us motorcycle riders. You do not want to have the thought of destroying someone’s life on your conscious.

By Biker Lawyer and California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © December 17, 2011

The post A Life Changed in an Instant, the anatomy of a Motorcycle Accident first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez riding around a curve on Mulholland Highway

Many motorcycle riders are seriously injured and die each year when they fail to negotiate turns or curves, and either end of in the opposing lane of traffic, or they lose control and crash.

It is unbelievable to me just how many experienced riders sometimes fail to properly negotiate turns or curves on the road, especially when riding canyon roads, or twisties.

What is the main reason for motorcycle riders failing to negotiate curves or turns? Excessive speed is the main reason.

If you ride too fast through a curve or turn, chances are you are going to either end up in the opposing lane, or you are going to crash.

What is the main way to avoid crashing on a curve or turn? Slow the hell down!

Many motorcycle safety courses teach that you should slow down before you enter a turn or curve, and never to brake or downshift while in a curve or turn. I say bullshit.

Look I have been legally riding motorcycles on the road for 32 years, since the age of 16. In my own personal experience, sometimes it is hard to judge if you are entering a curve or turn too fast.

If you have entered into a turn or curve too fast on your motorcycle, you need to do anything you can not to panic, not to cross over the yellow line into opposing traffic, and not to crash.

My rule is that if you are in a curve or turn too fast, do what you have to do to safely get through the turn or curve. If that means hitting the brake, do it. If that means downshifting, do it.

I have ridden with guys who absolutely refuse do brake or downshift in a turn or curve. I have also seen these guys both in front of me, and in my rear view mirror cross the yellow line into oncoming traffic. Thank goodness none of them have ever crossed the yellow line when a car was right there or they would have been a windshield bug splat.

They teach you in motorcycle safety courses that before you enter a curve you should direct your motorcycle to the farthest part of the lane away from the turn so that you can theoretically see around the turn more.

For instance if you are going into a left curve they say you should direct your motorcade more to the right so that you can see around the left curve, and if you are going into a right curve you should direct your motorcycle more to the left so you can see around the right curve.

They teach that you should not look at the road, but that you should look around the curve to where you are going and that your motorcycle will tend to go where you are looking.

Some say that you should put your knees close into the tank to help you get around the curve, and some say that you should concentrate on counter-steering to properly get around a curve.

I say they are all right to a certain extent.

However, when you are actually riding your motorcycle, you will find that you will at times have to look at the road and not just where you want to go when going around a curve, you will find that sometimes it is not safe to go to the farthest part of the lane away from a curve because of oncoming cars or debris on the shoulder, and you will find that concentrating just on counter-steering is sometime dangerous.

In the end the safest thing to remember when going around curves is to keep a safe speed period.

The one thing that will make you panic or feel uncomfortable more than anything when going around a curve whether it be on a mountain pass or on a highway curve is excessive speed.

If you first let off of the throttle, you motorcycle will naturally start to slow down because of the action of friction and the engine.

If you are still going to fast don’t be afraid to apply a little front brake, but not too much because you may lose control. I like to apply both front and rear brakes.

If the turn is wet applying too much rear brake may make you slide out.

If you are still going too fast, downshift into a lower gear if you can safely.

If there are cars or other motorcycles behind me, and I am downshifting into a lower gear to slow down, I also try to tap my brake a bit just so the persons behind me can see my break light so they don’t rear end me.

Even with plenty of practice and riding experience, riding through turns and curves requires current practice and experience.

The worst riders are sometimes the people with the most experience because they think they are the great riders so they sometimes do not exercise the caution that they should.

Riding a motorcycle is not like riding a bike. Each time you are out, you need to exercise caution and ride at a safe speed.

Keep both wheels on the road.

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney, and Biker Lawyer, Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © October 19, 2011

The post Riding your Motorcycle around Curves and Turns without Killing Yourself first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

California Motorcycle Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, Photo courtesy of the American Bar Association Journal, and photographer David Newhardt

Well with Palm Springs American Heat I have finally had enough with what I think is a disgusting advertising practice by what in my opinion are bottom feeder personal injury lawyers.

In Palm Springs a certain so-called Biker Lawyer group had some scantily clad young girls aggressively coming up to people who were walking by saying that they worked for a lawyer who actually rides, as they tried to force feed passerby’s their business cards, and cheap novelties and trinkets.

I told the girls who came up to me, “Sorry, I am a Biker Lawyer who actually rides.” They kind of had a shocked look on their faces.

You see, I actually ride to many motorcycle events all over the nation. This year was no different.

All of a sudden there are a certain group of the same personal injury lawyers showing up at events calling themselves “Biker Lawyer” and  “Lawyers that ride” at motorcycle events.

To me a Biker Lawyer and a Lawyer that rides, is someone like me who is a lawyer and who also is a biker that rides motorcyles. It is a real simple concept, not some bullshit marketing slogan!

I think that I may have been the first Biker Lawyer to coin that term back in 1997 or so, because I am a lawyer who really rides. Once I started putting it out there on my website and on my blog, all of a sudden I saw other lawyers claiming the same thing.

Well now all of a sudden there are groups of lawyers showing up at motorcycle events all claiming to be “lawyers that really ride.”

It is not that I do not mind competition, hell I think it would be great to find a group of lawyers that actually ride motorcycles, hell I would like to go ride with them and make some new friends.

But what I really think is going on is a marketing gimmick aimed at bikers, and the way I see it, showing up at a motorcycle rally with a booth telling people if they crash their motorcycles, to call them, is disgusting and despicable to me.

In two words it is “Bad Karma.”

At the Las Vegas biker rally a few weeks ago, as we were walking by one of these booths, some guy sitting on his ass in the booth looked at my wife’s hat and said in a smart ass way, “who is the biker lawyer?” (The hat said Biker Lawyer, www.bikerlawyer.net on it) I told him I was. I also told him that I don’t sit at booths at motorcycle rallies; I actually ride to the rallies.

He had a stunned look on his face because I was actually in my biker garb because; yes I was riding, unlike him.

Curious about what it actually takes to be a Biker Lawyer with one of these organizations that has started up in the last couple of years I believe; I contacted one who I think was based in Arizona if I am not mistaken. They sent me a bunch of literature. At the time I contacted them, they had some firm based in San Diego as their only California firm.

In researching them, I saw no indication whatsoever that anyone from the firm listed for California at the time rode motorcycles. Matter of fact, I never even heard of them! Now it could be that someone from that firm actually rode motorcycles, it all seemed fishy to me.

Basically, I was told that if you pay at the time I contacted them, approximately 10k or so yearly fee to the organization I am referring to, you can be a Biker Lawyer with their group.

They would advertise for cases for you, and send you the cases in your territory. Very interesting!

Now the casual person looking at this group would think that it is all the same organization. Well it is not. It is a marketing vehicle that attorneys pay to be a part of.

Nowhere on the application did it ask if you actually ride motorcycles. Further, they hold themselves out to be Lawyers that really ride.

I think this practice is very misleading. I think consumers and bikers should be notified that lawyers pay a fee to be a part of this organization, and I think each of their lawyers should actually ride if they are going to advertise that they are lawyers who ride!

My next question is that most States require you to be licensed in that particular State to practice law in that State. You can apply to represent an individual in Court on a one or two time basis if you are an out of state lawyer, however, you cannot do it all the time.

So I wondered, how do the now 3-5 groups of lawyers that show up at all of the biker rallies, and that advertise in all of the biker rags, actually practice law in all 50 states legally.

The answer is that they cannot. It appears to me that these groups of lawyers that are advertising nationwide either have some kind of fee splitting deal going on with lawyers in the different States so the main lawyer will advertise and get cases for them, and then they will share the attorneys fee with the guy in the State actually doing the case, or they have some kind of marketing scam going on, where the attorney pays a fee like the organization I contacted, and the main attorney will advertise, and then send cases to the lawyers who are paying their franchise fee.

I think this entire practice is misleading, and despicable.

I saw American Chopper last night where even another group that I have never heard of before has popped up. It appears to me to be another marketing setup where they have created a website to target nationwide the “niche” market of motorcycle riders.

After digging deep into their website, it looks like the main law firm sponsoring their “Biker law” marketing campaign is based in Pennsylvania, and they too are claiming that they are lawyers that ride. I have no clue how this site or law firm work, but again, unless they have attorneys licensed in each state, they too must have some kind of fee splitting or franchise type of deal going on.

They do not limit themselves to just one State on their website.

On the TV show, they had a guy who they represented to be an attorney come in and order a custom bike to honor the firefighters or something to that affect. Somewhere it stated that he was the “lead counsel” or “managing counsel” of the biker law end of the firm. What the hell does that mean?

Anyway, at the end of the show there were a bunch of people in t-shirts with the biker law website address on it.

I almost threw up. You got to admit these people are marketing geniuses. They get an hour of TV advertising for what looks to be new operation, and all they had to do is pay (probably overpay) for a custom chopper from Orange County Choppers.

In the end there sits us real bikers. What are we supposed to believe is true?

First, I think that no lawyer should be going to motorcycle events and advertising for motorcycle accident cases. People are at the events to have fun, not to have the fact that they could crash shoved down their throats by a bunch of marketing hacks.

Second, I think that all of these firms should be forced to disclose the truth about their organizations, i.e., whether they are a fee splitting shop, whether lawyers pay them to have cases sent to them, and who in fact is the real biker lawyer in their organization.

I personally know at least two major attorneys in the so-called biker lawyer nationwide marketing scam, and neither of them rides motorcycles. One of them even stated in the Los Angeles Times in an article that he does not ride; because he wants to see his grandkids grow up. The article featured one of their new associates who had just got a Sportser, who had ridden for less than 6 months. (This guy has since left and opened his own bike lawyer shop)

So here I sit a humble real California Biker Lawyer who actually rides motorcycles. I am the friggen real deal. I am not playing some marketing scam on my clients. They know what they are getting when they retain me.

If you are in California and want the real deal call me; 800-816-1529 x.1.

For the rest of you there is a saying; Caveat Emptor, which is Latin for let the buyer beware.

Finally, you can have a say so if you also don’t like these bottom feeders showing up at our motorcycle rallies, simply don’t call them if you have an accident.

With a little research you can find someone like me who actually ride’s and is not part of some marketing operation geared towards bikers!

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney, and Biker Lawyer, Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2011

The post What is up with all these So-Called “Biker Lawyers” all of a Sudden showing up with Booths at All of the Motorcycle Events? first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Scene of fatal Love Ride accident on the 5 Freeway.

PACOIMA CALIFORNIA – Two people died Sunday after crashing their motorcycle into a big rig on the 5 Freeway.

The crash happened on the northbound 5 Freeway at Branford Street before 11 a.m. Sunday at just as bikers were crowding the freeway for the 28th annual Love Ride charity fundraiser.

According to California Highway Patrol officials, the driver of the motorcycle was between lanes when he collided with a big rig, throwing the rider and passenger underneath the truck where they were both run over, instantly killing himself and his female passenger.

“During 28 years of the Love Ride, we have not had a single fatality,” Shokough said. “This is sad beyond words. My heartfelt condolences and sympathies go to the family and the friends of these two riders”

Two others were treated on scene for minor injuries and another was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Led by “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno, today’s event was expected to draw over 18,000 bikers and raise as much as .7 million for charities, including this year’s designated charity, Autism Speaks.

Love Ride was established in 1984 by Harley-Davidson of Glendale.

The only reason Liz and I were not doing this year’s Love Ride is because I am having a surgery on Friday, and I needed the weekend off.

News of this accident makes me sick as it would any biker who rides motorcycles.

Here in California most of us bikers and motorcyclist split lanes because it is not illegal, and traffic is horrible.

It appears that the guy who was killed in this wreck may have been splitting lanes.

I myself have split lanes countless times and I can tell you what, when I get next to a big rig I always get nervous, especially when there is nowhere to go.

I am not going to use this news to write an article on how to lane split.

My prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends of the rider and passenger who were killed in this accident.

Pacoima California Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The post A Rider and a Passenger Killed During Love Ride first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez

I am a Motorcycle Accident Attorney who handles motorcycle accident cases all over the State of California. Unlike all of the other lawyers out there advertising for motorcycle accident cases, I actually ride motorcycles.

I have a unique incite above all other lawyers who do not ride motorcycles because I am actually a biker like you.

I cannot tell you how sick and tired I am of getting a new motorcycle accident case, where my client has suffered catastrophic injuries, and the person at fault has minimum $15,000 coverage, no coverage, or coverage nowhere close to covering the damages in the accident.

Look let’s face it, we motorcycle riders are far more likely to be seriously injured or even killed in a motorcycle accident, then those who ride 4 wheel cars or trucks. Unlike the person in a car who has a metal cage around them, all we have is the helmet and clothes on our body to protect us. When we hit the ground at speed we tend to suffer more serious injuries.

It is smart and prudent for those of us who ride motorcycles to protect ourselves financially in case we are in an accident.

So you may ask how we protect ourselves financially in case we are in a motorcycle accident.

It is simple; we buy enough insurance to cover the risk of catastrophic injury in case we are in a motorcycle accident.

How do we buy the right insurance? It is simple, in California, most uninsured motorist coverage policies also cover under insured motorist as well. In other states or even California, you want to make sure you have uninsured motorist and under insured motorist coverage in an amount of no less than 0,000 dollars. I suggest that you have at least one million dollar uninsured motorist and under insured motorist coverage for motorcycle accidents.

Uninsured motorist coverage will cover you in case a person who is at fault in an accident has no insurance.

Under insured coverage, covers the difference between what the at fault driver insurance policy limits are and your coverage. It gives you the option of deciding how much coverage you will need.

I also suggest that you maintain high liability coverage limits as well (In case you are at fault) for your passenger in case you are in an accident where you are at fault.

Finally how do you cover yourself for an accident that you are at fault in? You can get comprehensive and collision coverage to cover your motorcycle, rental car coverage to cover your loss of use of your motorcycle, and medical payment coverage to cover your medical bills.

Most policies that I have seen only cover medical payments up to $10,000; however I am sure you can get more coverage depending upon how much you are willing to pay.

So there it is there are no more excuses for not enough insurance coverage to cover you in case you are in a motorcycle accident. Call your insurance agent and get yourself covered.

I do not want to find myself one day trying to explain to you why after you have suffered a million dollar injury, you will only get ,000 in your motorcycle accident, because the person who is at fault only has minimal coverage, and no assets to pay you a million dollar judgment.

Besides, if you do get a million dollar judgment against an at fault driver, all they have do to is go bankrupt to get rid of the debt to you. The right insurance is almost always the only way to protect yourself financially in a motorcycle accident case.

If you or your family have been the victim of a motorcycle crash, truck crash, car crash, or other motor vehicle accident anywhere in California call us for a free consultation at 800-816-1529 x. 1, or go to http://www.thepersonalinjury.com.

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney, and Biker Lawyer, Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © September 18, 2011

The post How can you protect yourself financially if you have a Motorcycle Accident? first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Scene of Glendale CHP Motorcycle Accident

A California Highway Patrol officer was hospitalized with major injuries Tuesday afternoon after he was knocked off his motorcycle by another driver during an attempted traffic stop on the 134 Freeway, according to a CHP traffic report.

Officer J.D Fields, 59, an Altadena resident, suffered a broken femur and wrist after the accident, which occurred around 1:40 p.m. near the intersection of the 134 and 2 freeways in Glendale.

Fields had seen a vehicle pulled over on the side of the road and moved into the right lane, put on his lights, and slowed down to approach the car.

A woman driving a 2010 Nissan vehicle was behind him and failed to see him slow down, according to the report. She veered quickly out of the lane and then “for unknown reasons,” moved back into the right lane and hit Fields’ motorcycle, the report states.

Fields was thrown from the motorcycle and onto the road. He was transported to the Huntington Hospital shortly after the accident.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation, according to the report.

This crash brings to mind a safety feature for motorcycles that I think should be implemented; a brake light that triggers with sudden deceleration of a motorcycle.

Let me explain. We, who ride motorcycles, tend to downshift to decrease our speed on most if not all occasions, before we hit the brakes.

If a car traveling fast behind us, does not see brake lights when we downshift to slow down, they do not know we are slowing down, and they rear end us.

I think that is exactly what happened in this rear ender of Officer Fields.

I have been on rides and seen motorcycle on motorcycle rear end collisions due to the same reason.

If there was a sudden decoration device on our motorcycles that triggered the brake light, I think we could save many a biker and motorcyclist lives.

For you inventers out there, maybe you can come up with something. Maybe a device like this should be mandatory for motorcycles.

It would appear that Officer Fields in the accident mentioned above, not only has a Workers Compensation case against the California Highway Patrol, and a separate Personal Injury case against the woman who hit him from behind.

The law in California is that a person driving behind another person, has a duty to maintain a safe distance from the car or motorcycle in front of them, so they can stop in case the vehicle in front of them stops. It appears that the woman is at fault in this case.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident anywhere in the State of California, call the real California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez for a free consultation at 800-816-1529 x. 1.

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney, and Biker Lawyer

The post California Highway Patrol Officer Injured in Motorcycle Collision at the 134 and 2 Freeway Junction in Glendale; Maybe the Accident could have been avoided with a Safety Device. first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Motorcycles on the ground after horrible motorcycle accident in Arizona

The dump truck driver responsible for the deaths of four motorcyclists in a horrendous rear ender crash in Arizona has been arrested after toxicology results found methamphetamine was in his system on the day of the crash.

46-year-old Michael Jakscht is being charged with 4 counts of manslaughter, 5 counts of aggravated assault, and 7 counts of endangerment. He is being booked into the Maricopa County Jail.

Phoenix Police say that Jakscht was driving the truck that plowed through a group of eight motorcycles stopped at a red light at Carefree Hwy and 27th Ave back on March 25.

Three men caught under the truck and dragged were killed almost instantly. They were 67-year-old Clyde R. Nachand, 35-year-old Daniel L. Butler, and 52-year-old Stephen Punch. A female driver, 47-year-old Dayle Veronica Downs-Totonchi, died the next day from her injuries.

Phoenix Fire Captain Ernie Lizarraga was also one of the several victims seriously injured.

Officers arrested Jakscht Tuesday in the area of Highland and State Route 51.

Jakscht was being watched at his residence in Scottsdale. The surveillance team saw him leave and he was stopped by officers who observed impaired driving behavior.

Jakscht has been under surveillance ever since the fatal crash, as police waited for toxicology test results. The test results were completed in record time and illegal drugs — methamphetamine — were found present in Jakscht’s system, according to police.

Crime lab tests usually take between 4 to 6 weeks, but police made this test a priority and it was completed in two.

There are possible charges pending for impaired driving.

The accident is still under investigation.

I cannot believe that Arizona waited so long to arrest this guy.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Website

The post Truck Driver Charged in Fatal Arizona Motorcycle Crash first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.