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The Major Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in the USA and How to Prevent Them

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
The Biker Law Blog | www.bikerlawblog.com

As a lifelong biker and an attorney who has represented motorcycle accident victims for nearly three decades, I’ve seen firsthand how devastating these crashes can be. One moment you’re cruising down the highway with the wind at your back, and the next, your life can be forever changed.

Motorcycle accidents are tragically common across the United States, and unlike car crashes, the consequences are often far more severe. Riders don’t have the luxury of steel cages, airbags, or crumple zones. What we do have is skill, awareness, and the ability to control the decisions we make on the road.

In this article, I’ll break down the major causes of motorcycle accidents and offer practical tips to help prevent them—because knowing the risks is the first step toward avoiding them.

Motorcycle_Accident_Causes_Featured_Image

1. Left-Turning Cars at Intersections

One of the most common and deadliest scenarios involves a car turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This typically happens at intersections when a car driver misjudges the biker’s speed or fails to see them entirely.

Why It Happens:

• Drivers are looking for other cars—not motorcycles.

• Misjudgment of a motorcycle’s speed and distance.

• Distracted or impatient drivers trying to “beat” traffic.

How to Prevent It:

• Ride defensively: Assume the driver doesn’t see you.

• Cover your brakes: Be ready to stop or swerve.

• Use your high beam during the day: It improves visibility.

• Slow down at intersections: Even if you have the right of way.

2. Cars Changing Lanes Into Motorcyclists

You’re riding along in a lane when suddenly, a car veers into your path—without a signal or warning. This is another leading cause of accidents and often results in serious injuries.

Why It Happens:

• Motorcycles are small and easily disappear in blind spots.

• Drivers fail to check mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes.

• Motorcyclists linger in blind zones for too long.

How to Prevent It:

• Stay out of blind spots: If you can’t see the driver’s eyes in their mirror, they can’t see you.

• Position yourself visibly: Ride in the lane portion where you are most visible.

• Flash your lights or honk if needed: It’s better to be safe than polite.

3. Speeding—By Riders or Other Drivers

Speed kills. While many riders enjoy the thrill of acceleration, excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance.

Why It Happens:

• Riders seeking adrenaline rushes.

• Drivers and riders failing to adjust speed for conditions.

• Misjudging corners or road conditions at high speeds.

How to Prevent It:

• Ride within your limits—not the machine’s.

• Use track days to enjoy high-speed riding in a safe, controlled environment.

• Adjust speed for weather, road surfaces, and traffic.

4. Alcohol and Drug Impairment

Riding under the influence is a recipe for disaster. Reaction times slow, coordination suffers, and judgment becomes impaired.

Why It Happens:

• Riders or drivers overestimate their abilities while intoxicated.

• Impaired driving by others leading to collisions with riders.

How to Prevent It:

• Never ride impaired. Ever.

• Encourage others to ride sober.

• Avoid riding near bars at closing time, when impaired drivers may be on the road.

5. Road Hazards

Potholes, gravel, slick surfaces, and uneven lanes can all spell disaster for a motorcycle. Unlike cars, we don’t have four points of traction—we have two.

Why It Happens:

• Poor road maintenance.

• Weather-related issues like wet leaves or ice.

• Debris or animals suddenly appearing on the road.

How to Prevent It:

• Scan the road well ahead and adjust your path or speed.

• Don’t overreact—abrupt braking on gravel or slick roads can cause a slide.

• Practice low-speed handling and emergency maneuvers.

6. Inexperience and Lack of Training

Too many riders hit the streets without proper training or experience, especially when moving up to bigger bikes.

Why It Happens:

• Overconfidence.

• Failure to take a safety course.

• Lack of regular riding practice.

How to Prevent It:

• Take a certified motorcycle safety course (such as the MSF Basic Rider Course).

• Ride regularly to build skill—riding is perishable if you don’t practice.

• Know your bike’s handling characteristics inside and out.

7. Group Riding Accidents

Group rides can be a blast—but they also bring unique dangers when riders follow too closely or ride beyond their skill level.

Why It Happens:

• Peer pressure to keep up.

• Tight formations or sudden braking.

• Inadequate planning or communication.

How to Prevent It:

• Ride your own ride. Never exceed your comfort level.

• Use staggered formations to maintain space and visibility.

• Establish clear group riding rules before hitting the road.

The Role of Protective Gear

Even with prevention, accidents happen. That’s why proper gear is essential. Full-face helmets, armored jackets, gloves, and boots save lives and reduce injury severity.

• Always gear up, even for short rides.

• Hi-viz gear improves visibility, especially at dawn and dusk.

• Replace gear after a crash, even if it looks okay.

Legal Protection Matters Too

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident—especially due to another party’s negligence—you need an attorney who rides and understands the road.

At The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez, I’ve not only handled motorcycle cases for nearly 30 years, I ride myself. I understand the unique factors that go into proving fault and getting bikers the maximum compensation they deserve.

Final Thoughts

Motorcycle riding is one of the greatest freedoms there is—but it comes with risk. That doesn’t mean you should stop riding. It means you should ride smart, ride defensively, and be prepared.

Understand the causes of most motorcycle accidents, take control of your own safety, and always be aware of the road—and the people sharing it with you.

Ride safe, ride smart, and know that I’ve got your back.

Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.
California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The Biker Law Blog – www.bikerlawblog.com
The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez – www.thepersonalinjury.com

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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.

Motorcycle riding offers unparalleled freedom and excitement, but it also comes with significant risks. Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries or even fatalities due to the lack of physical protection compared to cars. Therefore, it is crucial for riders to adopt strategies and practices that minimize the risk of accidents. This article will explore essential tips that motorcycle riders can follow to enhance their safety and prevent accidents.

1. Wear Proper Protective Gear

One of the most fundamental steps in preventing motorcycle accidents is wearing appropriate protective gear. This includes:

• Helmet: A high-quality helmet is the most critical piece of safety equipment. It protects the rider’s head in case of a crash, significantly reducing the risk of fatal injuries. Choose a helmet that meets safety standards, such as DOT, ECE, or Snell certification.
• Jacket and Pants: Wear motorcycle-specific jackets and pants made of abrasion-resistant materials like leather or textiles with armor inserts at critical points (elbows, shoulders, knees).
• Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from injuries and improve grip on the handlebars. Opt for gloves with reinforced knuckles and palm sliders.
• Boots: Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots provide protection for your feet and ankles. Look for boots with non-slip soles and ankle protection.
• Eye Protection: If your helmet does not have a built-in visor, wear shatterproof goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from debris and wind.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

Regular motorcycle maintenance is essential for safe riding. A well-maintained motorcycle is less likely to experience mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Key maintenance tasks include:

• Tires: Check tire pressure and tread depth regularly. Replace tires that are worn out or damaged.
• Brakes: Inspect brake pads, discs, and fluid levels frequently. Ensure your brakes are in optimal working condition.
• Lights: Verify that all lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals) are functioning correctly. Visibility is crucial, especially in low-light conditions.
• Chain and Sprockets: Lubricate the chain regularly and check for wear and tension. Replace sprockets as needed.
• Fluids: Regularly check engine oil, coolant, and other fluids. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid changes.

3. Enhance Visibility

Motorcycle riders are often less visible to other motorists, increasing the risk of accidents. Enhancing visibility can significantly reduce this risk. Here’s how:

• Bright Clothing: Wear bright or reflective clothing and gear to increase visibility to other road users.
• Headlights: Always ride with your headlights on, even during the day, to make your motorcycle more noticeable.
• Positioning: Ride in a position where you are visible to other drivers. Avoid riding in blind spots, and make sure to use your signals when changing lanes or turning.

4. Ride Defensively

Defensive riding involves anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to react to them. Key defensive riding strategies include:

• Anticipate and Scan: Constantly scan the road ahead and anticipate potential hazards, such as sudden stops, debris, or animals.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow adequate time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
• Watch for Intersections: Intersections are common sites for accidents. Slow down, cover your brakes, and be prepared for vehicles making unexpected turns.
• Avoid Aggressive Riding: Stay calm and avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, speeding, or weaving through traffic.

5. Improve Your Riding Skills

Continuous improvement of your riding skills is crucial for accident prevention. Consider these steps:

• Take a Safety Course: Enroll in a motorcycle safety course to learn advanced riding techniques and safety strategies. Courses are available for riders of all skill levels.
• Practice Braking: Practice emergency braking in a controlled environment to improve your ability to stop quickly and safely.
• Cornering Techniques: Learn proper cornering techniques to maintain control and stability when navigating curves.
• Stay Updated: Keep up with new safety information and riding techniques by reading motorcycle safety literature and participating in rider forums.

6. Adapt to Road Conditions

Different road conditions require different riding approaches. Adapt your riding style to match the conditions:

• Wet Roads: Reduce speed and increase following distance on wet roads. Avoid sudden maneuvers and use both brakes gently to prevent skidding.
• Gravel or Sand: Slow down and avoid sudden acceleration or braking on loose surfaces to maintain traction and control.
• Night Riding: Increase visibility by using high beams when appropriate, and reduce speed to account for decreased visibility.

7. Stay Sober and Focused

Riding a motorcycle requires complete focus and alertness. Avoid riding if you are:

• Under the Influence: Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired judgment and delayed reactions significantly increase the risk of accidents.
• Fatigued: Fatigue can impair your concentration and reaction times. Ensure you are well-rested before embarking on a ride.
• Distracted: Avoid distractions such as using your phone, adjusting your GPS, or eating while riding. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings.

Conclusion

Preventing motorcycle accidents requires a combination of proper gear, regular maintenance, visibility enhancement, defensive riding, skill improvement, adaptation to road conditions, and a commitment to staying sober and focused. By adopting these practices, motorcycle riders can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and enjoy a safer riding experience. The thrill of riding a motorcycle comes with inherent risks, but with the right precautions, you can ensure that your rides are as safe as they are exhilarating. Stay safe on the road and enjoy the journey responsibly.

By California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez, July 2024
https://thepersonalinjury.com

The post How Motorcycle Riders Can Prevent Accidents: Essential Tips for Safety first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

If you’ve ever been involved in a motorcycle accident, you’ve probably been left wondering what caused the wreck. Although the details are still unknown, one thing is for sure: these accidents can have a devastating impact on your life. If you’re injured in a crash, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention immediately and get your injuries evaluated by a doctor.

Aside from the usual suspects such as speed, impaired driving, and distracted driving, there are a few less common causes of motorcycle crashes. For example, you might not realize it, but you could be getting in trouble for drinking and driving. This can lead to a variety of problems, including ejection from your bike. Similarly, your brakes may be malfunctioning and you may be unable to control your vehicle.

Another factor is road defects. These include potholes, uneven pavement, and loose gravel. All of these are dangerous for motorcyclists. The worst case scenario is a smashed up bike, but you’re also at risk of getting hurt if your bike hits a pedestrian or another vehicle.

The rear-end collision can be one of the more frightening types of motorcycle crashes. The forces of the crash can cause serious injury, especially if the motorcycle was traveling at a high speed. If you are involved in a rear-end collision, it’s a good idea to stay calm and keep your eyes on the road, even if it means taking a moment to stop.

Other causes of motorcycle crashes are driver negligence, road hazards, and inattentive drivers. If you’re the driver in an accident, remember to keep a close eye on your surroundings and communicate with other drivers. When driving with a friend, make sure to communicate clearly and ask for his or her input. It’s also a good idea to check your mirrors before making a turn to ensure you can see the motorcycle in front of you.

The best way to protect yourself from a motorcycle crash is to never drive under the influence. Alcohol can impair your balance and coordination, and it can also inhibit your reaction time. If you’re found guilty of drunk driving, you can expect to spend some time in jail. In addition, if you are injured in an accident, you might not be able to recover much of your damages from the other party.

Other factors include blind spots, lane splitting, and speeding. The first two are legal in some areas of the country. However, lane-splitting is illegal in 10 mph traffic. Unless you’re traveling at 40 mph or less, you shouldn’t be making any sudden stops or lane changes.

The motorcycle’s low profile means that you have less protection than a car. The other vehicles on the road can be more powerful and may hit you in the event

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident anywhere in California call us now for a free consultation. Norman Gregory Fernandez is the original Biker Lawyer that Rides. We are expert motorcycle accident attorneys, 800-816-1529.

Click Here to Download our California Accident App for Apple and Android.

The post What Causes Motorcycle Accidents first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

When riding a motorcycle, riding in a turn is an important skill to master. If you have ever had a car accident, you know how frightening it is to hit an object when turning. But if you are on a motorcycle, you will have to learn how to safely ride a motorcycle in turns. This article will cover the proper way to turn safely. Here are some of the basics to help you out:

When you are approaching a corner, try to be aware of what is ahead of you and how to make adjustments. When entering a turn, be sure to keep your head up and look forward. A motorcycle’s geometry will be affected by the angle it is leaning in, so you can make adjustments to stay within the lines. When you are coming out of a turn, use counter-steering to straighten out your bike.

To start, try to maintain a constant stream of gas as you approach the turn. This will help you avoid any unexpected obstacles that might be in the way. You will also want to be aware of any blind spots that you might have, so that you can avoid them. In addition, it is best to take note of any reckless drivers or unsafe driving and leave some cushion between you and the driver. When riding on unfamiliar roads, do not rely solely on side view mirrors because they may be partially obstructed by elbows and sounders.

When riding a motorcycle, you will need to know when to slow down and lean into the turn. When you are entering a corner, it is essential to stay alert to oncoming traffic. It is also wise to stay aware of what is on the other side of the road. Remember to watch the horizon for any obstacles and adjust your speed accordingly. Whenever you enter a turn, it is important to maintain your balance, as this will help you steer in a safer manner.

Before entering a corner, consider the angle and distance to the right. It is not always easy to see when riding a motorcycle. As a result, you should always keep your head up and look out. A good way to do this is to check the space around you. You will notice any blind spots and take note of the drivers who are driving dangerously. You will need to leave enough cushion distance between you and these vehicles.

The first tip in riding a motorcycle is to always look at the road. You need to be aware of what is in front of you. In a turn, you will need to be looking out the road and keep your eyes on your passengers. You will need to keep your head high and look out for objects in your peripheral vision. As you approach the turn, you should make adjustments to the speed of your bike.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident anywhere in California, Call the real motorcycle accident lawyers who ride The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez at 800-816-1529

The post How to safely ride a motorcycle in turns, by California Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez 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.

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.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney and Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez in Yellowstone National Forest

As a personal injury attorney who is an expert in motorcycle accident cases, I get reports of motorcycle accident cases from all over the country on a daily basis.

This particular summer, seems like the worst summer for fatal motorcycle accidents that I’ve ever seen. Many of the motorcycle accidents are caused by negligent cars and cagers, but many are caused by drugs and alcohol, or excessive speed, on the part of the motorcycle rider.

Here are examples of some of the reports I received within the last 21 hours:

Uncasville man dies following Friday motorcycle crash

An Uncasville motorcyclist died at the hospital following a Friday afternoon crash in North Stonington, according to state police. Alexander Morales, 61 …

Police ID man killed in Fair Lawn motorcycle crash

Elgendy’s Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling northbound on River Road, he said, with the Ford F-150 pickup truck, traveling southbound, …

Man injured in South Berwick motorcycle collision

SOUTH BERWICK, Maine — A collision between a motorcycle and car sent one man to the hospital Sunday morning, according to a dispatcher with …

Ramp Was Closed After Deadly Motorcycle Crash

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The ramp from State Route 104 to U.S. 33 southbound was closed after a deadly motorcycle crash late Saturday afternoon.

Two seriously injured in motorcycle crash

County police summoned to the scene at Ritchie and Cedar Hill Lane at about 9:37 p.m. found that a southbound Honda motorcycle had struck the …

Lenexa man dead in motorcycle accident, Shawnee woman hospitalized

Police on Saturday released the name of the driver of a motorcycle who died Friday evening in a crash in the 19100 block of Prairie Star Parkway in …

Police say Bigelow man killed in motorcycle crash

Associated Press, news source 8:17 p.m. CDT August 15, 2015 … Arkansas State Police say a Bigelow man has been killed in a motorcycle crash.

Sheriff: Speed, alcohol factors in fatal motorcycle crash

Speed and alcohol appear to be factors in a crash that killed a motorcyclist in Green County Saturday night, according to a release.

2 Charleston County motorcycle deputies involved in accident

Shortly before 12:30 p.m., two of the motorcycle deputies from the Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit collided with each other while on a special event escort …

Above is just a small example of the motorcycle accidents that have taken place over the past 21 hours. It is hard to fathom how many motorcycle accidents occur on a daily basis.

California Biker Attorney and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

I have been riding motor driven two wheeled vehicles since I was a kid. I have been riding street motorcycles since I was 16. I have been in motorcycle clubs, I have been riding clubs, and ridden with thousands of people over the years. I ride on my motorcycle thousands of miles per year. I can tell you from personal experience the things that will make you most safe riding.

1. Wear proper motorcycle riding gear. This means good helmet, good jacket (armor plated jackets are readily available), denim pants, good riding boots, and gloves. I see too many idiots on the road riding in shorts, tennis shoes or flip-flops, and even with no shirts on. When you go down the only protection you have is what you are wearing.
2. Always anticipate that the cars on the road do not see you. If you ride as though the people you are on the road with do not see you, you will be much safer. It is a documented fact that most people riding in cars, trucks, or other motor vehicles, do not see motorcyclists. For some reason the way human beings are wired, they are not looking for motorcyclists. We can literally be right in front of them, and they do not see us. Another issue is the ubiquitous use of cell phones and texting drivers now, which is an epidemic. If you act as though you are invisible, you will ride safer.
3. Do not ride fast. Speed is the number 1 enemy for motorcyclists. It will kill you in an accident that is not your fault, and it will cause accidents that are your fault. If the speed limit is 80 miles an hour that does not mean you should be riding 80 miles an hour on the freeway. Unlike people in cars or trucks who have 4 more wheels to stop with, to balance with, and to turn with, motorcyclists have two wheels only. We have a lot less tire area, and friction between the pavement to work with. Riding slower will give you more time to stop, to take turns more safely, and allow you to identify potential hazards. To be frank it also makes riding more enjoyable.
4. Do not tailgate. I not only ride with people who tailgate, but I see many motorcyclists tailgating behind cars. These people are idiots. I never tailgate on a motorcycle. What do you think is going to happen if you tailgate a car and the car suddenly stops? A few years back an entire motorcycle club in Oregon was taken out by an SUV that stopped suddenly in traffic. The same thing happened in Arizona when multiple members of motorcycle club were killed when they hit a truck. I know of many instances where entire packs of bikes have gone down because one or two riders in the front deciding to tailgate behind vehicles. California law requires that vehicles keep a safe distance between them and the car in front of them. It is just common sense only for motorcyclists but for cars and trucks as well; do not tailgate.
5. Do not use drugs or alcohol when riding your motorcycle. This is not just a cliché or saying. When you are on a motorcycle you need 100% mental function, and even then sometimes you get yourself in dangerous situations. If you use drugs or alcohol you exponentially increase your chances of wrecking your bike. Do not do it.
6. Keep your motorcycle in proper working order. There was recently a Harley-Davidson recall on 2014 touring models for an improperly placed brake line, that in time could cause too much pressure to be put into the brake line and that could cause the front wheel to lock up. If the front wheel locks up on you on a motorcycle 99.9% of the time you are going to go down. One idiot from a major motorcycle magazine was making fun of the recall saying that in the old days a real biker would not have to take their motorcycle back to the dealer simply to get a tie wrap placed around the improperly placed brake line. He went on to say there was an unwritten contract between the biker and the motorcycle manufacturer, that the motorcycle manufactured can put out crap, and it was the biker’s responsibility to fix it. This guy is a moron. He is one of those types of guys who does not think that an injured person should go to court to get compensated for their injuries. This guy is so out of touch, he should not be writing for a major motorcycle magazine. The bottom line is you as a rider, have a duty to inspect your motorcycle to make sure the tires are properly inflated, have proper tread, and that basic maintenance is done on the bike, so that when you are riding at 40 mph plus, your engine, transmission, or wheels don’t suddenly lock up, or blowout. Unlike in a car, the situation what a mechanical malfunction occurs is much more dangerous. It is up to you to make the probability of this happening less likely by proper preventive maintenance. However, it is also the responsibility to take your motorcycle in what any recalls occur.
7. Do not ride your motorcycle when you’re in a bad mood. You definitely do not want to be a road rager on a motorcycle. If you’re in a bad mood or pissed off, it’s better to calm down before you get on your motorcycle.
8. Do not ride in bad weather unless you have to. Yes I know there are a lot of Midwesterners and East coasters who have very bad weather to contend with compared to me here in Southern California. These people always badmouth us Californians for being sissies when it comes to riding in bad weather. I don’t care how much of a badass you are, when the pavement’s wet, your tires have less traction. Hydroplaning on 2 wheels is much worse than hydroplaning in a car or truck that has 4 or more wheels. Taking a turn on wet pavement on a motorcycle is much more perilous than on dry pavement, especially at high speed. Unlike in a car, truck, or other motor vehicle, we and motorcycles do not have windshield wipers. If you have a car, you should ride your car on rainy and wet days. If you absolutely have to ride in bad weather, make sure you have a good motorcycle rain suit, a full-face helmet, keep your speed down, and anticipate that you will lose traction.

There are many more safety tips I could give you about riding motorcycles. I’ve learned many of these from personal experience, and from observing. I welcome you to make comments with your own safety suggestions.

I am a real deal expert in motorcycle accident cases. If God forbid you a bit of an accident anywhere in the state of California give me a call at 800-816-1529 extension 1. I will personally talk to you about your situation and we can discuss together what to do.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney and Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2015

The post This summer is turning out to be a real meat grinder first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Alvaro Horacio Arroyo on right, pictured with his mother 20 minutes before he was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident

On March 30, 2013, Alvaro Horacio Arroyo, was enjoying a day with his family.

He is pictured here on the upper left with his mother just 20 minutes before he was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident that was caused due to a negligent elderly person who made a left turn in front of him.

He was the jovial father of four sons, Alvaro – age 13, Alessandro – age 9, Ali – age 7, and Alden – age 2.

He was a loving husband to a blind and disabled wife Rosa.

He was a loving brother to Marisa, Nancy, Hector, Elmer, and Jesse.

He was a loving son to mother Agripina.

Alvaro was known as a kind and jovial person; the kind of person who made friends with everyone. He was the kind of person who made everyone laugh, and who everyone wanted to be around.

He was a role model to his children, and never balked at lending a helping hand to anyone that needed it, most of all his family.

On March 30, 2013, Alvaro decided to take his niece Bianca, for a ride around the block on his 2012, Yamaha YZF R6 motorcycle.

Bianca happened to be the primary caregiver for Alvaro’s disabled wife Rosa, and is herself also married with kids.

On that fateful day on March 30, 2013 as Alvaro and Bianca went for a short ride around the block where they lived, a car driven by a careless and  negligent elderly person turned left directly in front of them.

Having no time to react or maneuver or stop, they hit the vehicle.

Alvaro suffered massive head trauma and died of his injuries on April 5, 2013.

Bianca suffered severe injuries to her right leg, and the right side of her face which required multiple surgeries to both.

Her recovery will be slow and painful and she will need much more medical treatment and therapy to recover.

Rosa and Bianca now both need help living day to day, as well as their children.

The children of Alvaro and Bianca are suffering untold emotional distress, and at their young age do not really full comprehend the tragedy that has happened to the family simply because a negligent driver was not paying attention to what they were doing while driving.

Alvaro was a registered organ and tissue donor. With his wife’s approval, Alvaro’s organs were donated in an attempt to save other people’s lives. One Legacy he leaves is that he has helped other people to live by donating his organs.

This tragedy has left Alvaro’s family with no money to live.

They are in extreme need of help. The family is accepting donations through their PayPal account at:

lupiruz@msn.com

To make a donation simply go to PayPal by clicking here, and send your donation to email address:

lupiruz@msn.com

Services for Alvaro will be held at:

Forest Lawn Cemetery
1500 E. San Antonio Dr.
Long Beach, CA 90807

Visitation service and viewing will be:

Friday, April 19, 2013 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Memorial and Funeral will be: Saturday, April 20, 2013 2:00 pm

Rest in Peace Alvaro…………..

Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

The post Alvaro Horacio Arroyo, killed in a motorcycle accident; Rest in Peace. first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

Motorcycle riders listening to safety semiar in Orange, California

Motorcycle riders gathered on Saturday afternoon in Orange to hear safety tips from a former police officer.

Retired Orange police Cpl. Mark Camarillo led a seminar, “Smarter Safer Riding and How to Avoid a Traffic Citation,” at Irv Seaver Motorcycles

About 100 people sat and stood inside the dealer’s future service shop at 607 W. Katella Ave. for the seminar.

Camarillo told the crowd to use hard stopping, use common sense, to always use a turn signal, know the speed limit and also to ride defensively.

“I want to go home to my family every single night,” Camarillo said.

He also told the motorcycle riders to hold with the speed limit – plus or minus 5 mph.
“I fight the urge to ride aggressively,” Camarillo said. “It gives you time to react and time to stop. It’s less stressful on yourself. (Speeding) creates stress you probably don’t realize is happening to your body.”

He explained riders – and drivers – should always look left, right and left again at every light.

“It’ll save your life,” Camarillo said. “It gives you a chance to look back. That is a crucial thing to do.”

Since retiring from the Orange Police Department, Camarillo said he rides a BMW motorcycle and that people drive differently now that he’s not on a black-and-white.
“I get tailgated now, and I never got tailgated before. I wonder why?” he joked with the audience.

Many audience members said they didn’t know prior to the presentation that it was legal to turn left across a single double-yellow line, including Jennifer Chung and her son Kyle Tran, 15, of Westminster. The two were curious to listen to tips originating from a former police official. For Chung, riding is a family affair. She often takes her son on the back of her Kawasaki Ninja.

“A presentation such as this is always of interest to BMW drivers,” said Larry Troffer of San Clemente.

“If there’s anybody that can provide me some suggestions, I’m always interested,” said Bill Reitz, president of the BMW Club South Coast Riders. The group boasts 99 members and holds meetings once per month followed by a 65- to 100-mile ride.

Camarillo also said the Ortega Highway is the deadliest route, accompanied by Santiago Canyon Road.
He told the target audience that driving on the line between the lanes – known as lane splitting – is unsafe but legal. He suggested driving only 10 mph faster than the speed of traffic when splitting lanes.

“If traffic is doing 30 miles per hour, should i split it at 40? Why? I’m not getting there faster,” Camarillo said. “Everybody has to decide whether it is worth it or not.”

Owners Evan and Lois Bell of Irv Seaver Motorcycles are bike aficionados. This year, they celebrate the 100th anniversary for the business.

“Our most wonderful vacations have been on motorcycles,” Lois Bell said. The two have ridden through Europe, South America, South Africa, New Zealand, Ireland, Japan and Germany.

“If those individuals listened, it probably saved some lives,” she said.

• Motorcycle safety tips
• •Use sound judgment.
• •Drive the speed limit – plus or minus 5 mph.
• •Practice hard stopping.
• •Always use your turn signal.
• •Avoid getting grease, oil or diesel fluid on your tires.
• •Know the speed limits.

Orange California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Website

The post Former Police Officer Gives Tips on Motorcycle Safety first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney and Biker Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez

It has been estimated that approximately 90% of all motorcycle riders are weekend riders only. That is, they only ride their motorcycles on Saturday or Sunday only.

I am not sure how true this statistic is, because I sure see a lot of guys and gals riding their motorcycles to and from work during the week.

Hell, in some cities like San Francisco, there are hundreds of motorcycles and small scooters parked in downtown during working hours.

If the statistics are true that most people who ride motorcycles are weekend warriors, then that is a troubling statistic for me; here is why. The art of riding a motorcycle is in fact an art. The more you ride your motorcycle, the better you get at being a motorcycle rider.

Experienced riders, who take time away from riding their motorcycles, necessarily take time to become proficient riders again, and the only way to become proficient is to spend time back in the saddle.

Right now it is winter time and many motorcycle riders cannot ride their motorcycles because of the weather. They too will need to take it easy when they get back on their motorcycles when the weather breaks.

Therefore weekend warriors or people that have taken some time away from riding need to take it real easy when they get back on their motorcycles so that they can get used to riding again, even if they have taken 5 days off from riding their motorcycles in between weekends.

Another issue weekend warrior’s face is Sunday drivers; even Saturday drivers are Sunday drivers. What is a Sunday Driver? A Sunday driver is a driver of some kind of cage such as a car, truck, SUV, etc., that rides around on the weekends with their family in the vehicle, distracted by a family outing, and not paying attention for people riding motorcycles.

Therefore weekend warriors more than most motorcycle riders, need to take it real easy on their motorcycles. Do not speed, pay attention for cagers about to turn in front of you, and realize that your riding skills take time to come back after a 5 day absence from riding.

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq. © December 11, 2011

The post Weekend Warriors 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 Biker Attorney and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Norman Gregory Fernandez at the Beach Ride

As a California Motorcycle Accident Attorney and Biker Lawyer, I regularly deal with all sorts of different motorcycle accident cases that are caused by all sorts of different scenarios. As an actual rider of motorcycles, something that sets me apart from other lawyers who handle motorcycle accident cases, I know firsthand the risks and dangers of riding motorcycles.

I am always asked what do you have to watch out for the most while riding your motorcycle. I could write an entire book on this subject, however, I will do my best to answer the question in this short essay.

There really is no simple answer to this question. Motorcycle accidents are caused by other negligent motorists, lack of riding experience or knowledge, road conditions, loose debris, mechanical failure, excessive speed, tire failure, weather, animals, drugs and alcohol, even medical conditions of a rider.

All of these topics warrant a lengthy discussion.

However, in my practice and in my opinion, the single largest cause of motorcycle accidents is other motorists in 4 wheel or greater vehicles, we bikers and motorcyclist call these persons “cagers.”

The largest threats to a biker and motorcyclist from a 4 wheel motorist on his or her motorcycle are; (1) A motorist turning left in front of you, (2) A motorist cutting you off or hitting you while exiting a driveway or an ally, (3) A motorist cutting you off or hitting you while coming from a side street, (4) a motorist merging into you from the side while driving next to you or near you, (5) a motorist pulling out from the curb, and (6) getting rear ended.

Among all of the motorcycle accident cases that I handle, the threats articulated above are the main causes of motorcycle accident and motorcycle accident death cases that I handle.

There are some basic preventative measures you can take to minimize the chances of you becoming the next victim of a negligent motorist while out on your motorcycle.

Beyond taking a certified motorcycle safety course, and advanced course on your own motorcycle, not driving while intoxicated, wearing proper riding attire including a DOT certified full face or modular helmet, and making sure you have a proper motorcycle endorsement, there are a few tricks I have learned throughout the years that I will share with you.

(1) Don’t ride too fast for the conditions you are in.

Most motorcycle accident happen on city streets, and within a 5 mile radius from your home. If you are on let’s say a 4 lane street (2 in each direction), there are risks everywhere. Make sure you keep your speed down so that if you have to stop or slow down quickly, you can. Remember, the faster you ride, the longer distance it takes for you to slow down or stop.

(2) Cover your brakes at intersections or when you see a risk.

Covering your brake means to put your hand over the front brake lever to prepare to use your brake. You should cover your brake anytime you enter an intersection where you see a car stopped on either side of you, or a car waiting to make a left turn in the opposite direction. Why, because already having your hand on the brake lever will give you an extra second or two to hit the brakes and to potentially avoid and accident if one of the cars drives or turns in front of you.

I know it sounds like a hassle, but if you do it everytime, it will become engrained into your muscle memory and you won’t even have to think about it in time.

Under certain circumstances, you may even want to hit your brakes while covering, to heat the them up so that you can stop faster, and to signal the car behind you that you are slowing down. The car behind you cannot see you if you let off of the throttle and use your engine to slow you down.

(3) Look at the tops of the wheels of a threatening car.

When you see a car stopped as you approach a driveway, a side street, or in the oncoming left turn lane, look at its wheels, especially the tops of its wheels if you can see them. If you cannot see the tops, look at the tire rims or hubcaps. The tops of the wheels actually move much faster than the actual car does, and it will give you an indication of whether the car is moving towards you or not. Your eyes will be able to perceive the wheels moving way before your eyes will be able to perceive the entire car moving forward. Don’t ask me why, it is just the way we perceive things.

Obviously if you are riding along and you see a car stopped at a driveway or a side street, and you see its tires moving, you better assume that they do not see you, and take evasive action. The best evasive action is to brake or stop and to not swerve because when you swerve you have less motorcycle tire contact than if your tires are straight up and down. The less tire contact you have, the more likely that you will not be able to stop in time, and/or lose control of your motorcycle and lay it down.

If you see an oncoming car in the left hand turn lane, and its tires start to turn in your direction, assume that they are going to turn in front of you, and take evasive action.

(4) Assume that other motorist cannot see you when you ride.

No matter how bright your clothing, how many lights you have on your motorcycle, how visible you think you are, no matter what you do, for some inexplicable reason, we motorcycle riders seem to be invisible to motorist in cars, trucks, or other motor vehicles. I am not telling you to try do anything you can to be more visible to other motorist, on the contrary, you should do everything you can to try to be more conspicuous to other motorist.

There have actually been studies done to understand how we human beings perceive things, and it has been found that we humans actually and not consciously selectively filter out certain things that we see for various reasons.

It seems that many people riding in cars, trucks, and other vehicles for some reason, filter us motorcycle riders out. After an accident these people swear that they did not see us, when they should have. Whether it is unintentional or not, some motorist flat out do not see us.

When you ride you have to assume that other motorist do not see you and you need to ride accordingly. If you ride as though you are invisible to other motorist, you will actually be a much more cautious and better rider.

Assume that the car in the oncoming left hand turn lane is going to turn left in front of you Assume that if you are on a two lane road with cars parked on the side that a car will pop out from the parked position. Assume that the car you see waiting to turn out of a gas station or waiting to make a right turn at the intersection will turn in front of you.

I know it’s not fair, but as a motorcycle rider, we have to be much more diligent about our own safety when we ride our motorcycles. Yes you may have the right of way, but that is not going to stop the negligent cager from hitting you and doing some major damage to you.

Exercising caution and some restraint, will make your motorcycle riding experience much more pleasurable, and above all, will allow you to make it home after your ride instead of in the hospital.

Keep both wheels on the road!

By California Motorcycle Accident Attorney, and Biker Lawyer, Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © August 28, 2011

The post What do you have to watch out for the Most when Riding a Motorcycle? first appeared on Biker and Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog.