Motorcycle Safety Tips Blog

Here is a video which demonstrates a classic cager v. motorcycle scenario whereby a cager cuts off a motorcycle and causes the motorcycle to crash, probably causing severe personal injuries to the motorcyclist.

First off there is no excusing the cager whatsoever for causing this motorcycle accident. The car has a duty of due care to ensure that there is no one in the other lane before changing lanes. The video clearly shows that the biker owned the lane, and was clearly not at fault in this accident. I handle motorcycle cases such as this on a daily basis. Most of the time there is not video like this to show what actually happened in a motorcycle accident.

From the video it appears at least to me that the accident could have probably been avoided had the biker been riding slower. You may agree with me that it appears that the car took a bit of time before the biker hit the car. Had the biker been going slower, this accident probably could have been avoided.

What is the lesson learned by this video; Ride like you are invisible. If you are on city streets or highways, anticipate that some idiot is going to cut in front of you in their car. Ride defensively and always try to leave yourself a way out.

Obviously, there are times when there is flat out nothing that you can do, however, the lesson of this video is that riding slower on city streets and highways where cars and cagers will be entering and changing lanes may save your life!

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2008

Last year around this time I wrote an article about May being motorcycle safety awareness month, which you can read by clicking here now.

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

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

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

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

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2008

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

Here is a checklist that every motorcycle rider should follow:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparing to Ride

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

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

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

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

Hydraulic and Coolant fluids — Level should be checked weekly.

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

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

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

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

Horn — Test the horn.

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

California Motorcycle Accident Center

Although we ride our motorcycles all year here in California, in many parts of the country, riding season has begun with the coming of spring.

Whether you are in California, or somewhere else in the Country or world, it is always a good idea to do a safety inspection of your motorcycle, or have an authorized dealer or mechanic to do the same.

Having a motorcycle that is unsafe can cause motorcycle accidents. Unlike in a car that has 4 wheels, a motorcycle only has 2 wheels. There is no room for error or skimping on ensuring that your motorcycle is in tip top shape for riding.

I was recently on a group run where multiple people got flat tires. To be frank this was an odd occurrence and could have either been a coincidence, or the result of rolling though debris or road conditions that caused the flat tires, I do not know.

During a pit stop, one of the guys had some of that spray tire sealant put into his tire to get it back up, and the peer pressure was put on him to continue the ride. I whispered into his ear that his life was not worth it and that he should take the motorcycle to the dealer to get a new tire. I will say it again; on a motorcycle we only have 2 tires. Tire sealant and or plugs or patches are not safe for motorcycles period. Some people may argue or disagree, I don’t care. Unlike in a car, on a motorcycle the result of a blown tire can be your life or gross or serious personal injury. It is not worth taking a chance.

Inspect your motorcycle for loose bolts or screws. Check your brakes and tires for wear and replace pads or tires if necessary. Replace oil and fluids if necessary, etc. Making your motorcycle safe is not rocket science.

Above all the key to riding your motorcycle in a safe manner is you yourself as a biker or motorcyclist, taking it easy on your motorcycle, especially if you are getting back on the motorcycle after a winter break, or even a couple of week break. You are the key to preventing a motorcycle accident and personal injury. You need to watch for negligent cagers; cover at intersections; keep your motorcycle in gear at stops and watch behind you for potential rear enders; take turns slow; not ride next to cars or trucks; stay visible; ride like cagers cannot see you; anticipate the worst thing a cager can do, etc.

I wish nothing more than for you all to be safe this motorcycle riding season. I will be on the road this season as well and am planning on riding my Harley Davidson Electra Glide thousands of miles. I will be at many major motorcycle rallies this summer; therefore, I need to heed my own advice too.

Be Safe this Season so says the Biker Law Blog!

If god forbid you do have a motorcycle accident, or are a passenger who has been injured in a motorcycle accident in the State of California, and want to talk to a real biker lawyer who handles motorcycle accidents you may call me at 800-816-1529, extension 1.

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2008

This is my first article of the New Year 2008. As I write this article California is enduring extraordinary rains which we are not accustomed to.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, © 2008

I have read reports all over the internet about a book written by Dale Chipkar whose picture you can see on the left. As a matter of fact there are so many reports circulating around the Internet that I could not ignore it anymore and thought I would do a write up on the subject.

Mr. Chipkar claims in his book titled “Motorcycle Cancer, Are Motorcycles Killing Us With Cancers of the Prostate, Colon, Kidney, Bone, etc.,” that he has measured a surprisingly high amount of extremely low frequency radiation shooting up from our motorcycle seats. The radiation would in turn go directly into our bodies.

You can find Mr. Chipkar’s original press release and a link to purchase his book by clicking here.

He states that the radiation in question can be measured with an ELF/EMF Gauss Meter which he also sells on his website motorcyclecancer.com, but I am sure you can also purchase elsewhere.

Here is a direct quote from page 2 of his book; “Electromagnetic field radiation is an invisible phenomenon produced whenever there is current or electricity flow. A motorcycle engine involves a unique relationship with electrical systems and coils that generate anywhere from 10,000 to 70,000 volts of electricity during operation. Associated electric fields and EM waves are also discussed in my book. Throughout the electrical system, “oscillating currents” produce erratic, pulsing EMF radiation of varying frequencies. Most motorcycles have the battery, electrical components, modules, cables, etc. located directly under the seat of the rider! Extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields (EMF's) have ruthless penetrating magnetic field properties. As you read the web links below, keep in mind that ELF EMF sources can vary but the detrimental principles involved could remain the same. ELF EMF radiation at close exposure is unnatural and over time could have devastating biological consequences. Detection and protection is our best defense.”

Mr. Chipkar claims that the radiation could cause cancer of the prostate, testicles, colon, bladder, kidney, liver, pancreas and stomach, as well as infertility, “sexual dysfunction, erectile deficiency and loss of libido.”

Mr. Chipkar also goes onto to state “A motorcycle is the only place on earth where our vital organs are so close to possible electromagnetic radiation.”

My take on this issue is that I do not know enough about the subject to say one way or another whether this is some kind of scam, or if there is real validity to Mr. Chipkar’s claims. I do know this, if there is a measurable amount of radiation shooting up from our motorcycle seats than there is probably some validity to Mr. Chipkar’s claims, and probably a real reason for concern. I doubt that radiation going into our bodies from the seat of a motorcycle can be beneficial. I myself had a friend from High School who rode motorcycles for many years and who died from colon cancer at a very young age.

I am calling on the motorcycle industry and other technical people to immediately research this issue to determine if it is a valid problem and reason for concern. If it is, than I am calling on all motorcycle manufacturers, including motorcycle seat manufacturers to put appropriate electromagnetic radiation shielding in our seats to protects us from the EMF.

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

Although I am a biker lawyer, I try to ride my motorcycle as much as possible when I do not have to be in Court, especially now that gas prices are through the roof. Bumper to bumper traffic here in Southern California is another incentive to commute on my Harley Davidson motorcycle as well.

Speaking of gas prices and traffic; here in California many people are not only commuting more and more to work on their motorcycles, but many new motorcyclist are buying motorcycles to beat the traffic and the high gas prices as well.

Luckily for us bikers and motorcyclist, lane splitting is legal in the State of California. As a matter of fact, the State of California is one of only a couple of States that legally allow lane splitting.

What is Lane Splitting? I know many of my Biker Law Blog readers are experienced bikers and motorcyclist, and know what lane splitting is, however many of my readers are from other States, or are new riders, so I will offer a quick explanation of what lane splitting is.

Lane splitting in a nutshell is riding your motorcycle in between lanes on freeways, interstates, or roads. In California it is legal to ride between the lanes on the dotted line, so long as you are riding no more than 15-20 miles faster than the flow of traffic. Obviously this would be different on a public street where the speed limit is only 35 miles per hour.

Lane splitting is legal in this State because the legislature determined that it is safer for a biker or motorcyclist to not be parked in bumper to bumper traffic totally exposed with a risk of being rear ended, and because air cooled motorcycles require a constant flow of air to keep from overheating. This is another subject.

Anyway getting back to the fine art of lane splitting while riding your motorcycle in California; if there is one word I can use to describe what you need to exercise while lane splitting, it would be CAUTION!

Although lane splitting is legal, it takes the utmost caution and attention to be done safely, especially during the morning commute when cagers are in a big rush to get to work and not necessarily looking out for you when they switch lanes.

I regularly ride my motorcycle in a morning commute to downtown Los Angeles from the San Fernando Valley that is arguably one of the most treacherous morning drives for a biker or motorcyclist. I take the 118 freeway east to the 5 freeway South to the 110 freeway south, to Downtown Los Angeles! The traffic is an utter nightmare and there is no diamond lane or carpool lane to rely upon. (In California motorcycles can legally ride in Carpool lanes.) Some would argue that the 405 freeway is worse but I beg to differ.

Interstate 5 is the main artery up and down the State of California, and all of the big rig trucks and every other thing you can think of is on this freeway in the morning. It is so bad that I only see a few other motorcycles most mornings riding this route.

What I personally have learned lane splitting during morning commutes on the 5 freeway and the 110 freeway, is that literally every man and women are out for themselves.

Regularly there are rear ender or other types of accidents, and everyone is constantly switching lanes while in a rush to get to work in the bumper to bumper traffic. There are cagers on cell phones, putting on makeup, drinking coffee, etc. You get the picture.

So what is the best way to lane split; in my opinion the best position to be in is between the number 1 and number 2 lanes. (The number 1 lane is the left most lane, and the number 2 lane is the lane next to it to the right.)

If you are going to lane split you need to get into what I call the zone. It is almost a meditative state of utter concentration. You must look for any sign that a car or truck is going to cut in front of you, veer towards you, or even intentionally cut you off because they are pissed that you can beat the traffic and they cant.

I was lane splitting behind a motorcycle police officer the other day and he got cut off!!

You must be prepared to stop or switch into lanes at a moments notice. This is only possible if you are not going too fast. Pay special attention to trucks and SUV’s because they cannot see you and they take up most of their lane. Sometimes you will have to wait until there is an opening before you pass. Sometimes you will even have to stop to ensure that you have enough room to get between the cars while splitting lanes. Often time’s cars will move enough to give you room to pass, other times they seem to intentionally cut you off.

It can very hairy while lane splitting on your motorcycle. A split ½ second could mean the difference between making it in between the cars or being taken out. This is why you must, and I repeat must exercise extreme caution. You must assume that the cars do not see you. Pay extra attention when you approach a situation while lane splitting where there is a gap in a lane next to you. Assume that a cager will try to fill that gap to beat the traffic. If you rush into the gap you just might be taken out by a cager. Be careful!

I cannot tell you how many lane splitting accident cases I have handled as a biker lawyer. It is dangerous; there is no doubt about that.

If you do not feel comfortable lane splitting, then don’t do it! Furthermore do not let others pressure you to ride beyond your limits. Know your limits!

Lane splitting takes knowing your bike, staying in a low gear and using lots of front brake when needed.

I myself have no problem blowing my Mini-Beast Air Horn if I feel like a cager is closing me off, or about to cut me off.

Lane splitting will ultimately save you time and money in bumper to bumper traffic if done right. Get into the zone and do not speed!

Keep Both Wheels on the Road!

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

I am always preaching about motorcycle safety to everyone I know. I have written many articles on motorcycle safety here on the Biker Law Blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(6) Do not tailgate Cars.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keep Both Wheels on the Road!

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

I recently previewed a video which was put out by Honda Motor Corporation on their new intelligent ASV-3 motorcycle. This motorcycle was specifically designed to address the major issues which cause motorcycle accidents. A link to the video is provided at the end of this article.

My first impression upon seeing the motorcycle was that it looked ridicules, and looked like it had a pagoda or rickshaw canopy on the back. Matter of fact, it kind of looks like a Scorpion tail! I thought to myself there is no way in hell that I would ride a motorcycle that looked like this.

However, after watching the entire video, I must say that I do commend Honda for at least trying to develop a built in intelligent system to prevent motorcycle accidents.

The pagoda looking thing on the back actually serves multiple purposes; it is designed to make the motorcycle more conspicuous on the road, so that the motorcycle will catch cager’s attention. There is no doubt that this thing will get everyone’s attention! It also has a built in forward and rear camera, and an intelligent computer system to warn a rider of hazards.

The motorcycle also incorporates a vehicle to vehicle warning system that Honda has developed for cars, motorcycles, and other motor vehicles.

While watching the video I was thinking that the voice prompts and warnings from the system would drive me crazy. I was also thinking about how such a system might in fact save countless bikers lives.

Maybe the Honda ASV-3 is the perfect commute to work type of motorcycle for safety reasons. Here in Southern California, the vast majority of motorcycle accidents happen during the infamous Southern California rush hour commute jam. I am not sure.

I do commend Honda for at least trying to do something to increase motorcycle safety, where other motorcycle manufacturers are doing little or nothing. This motorcycle may be a peek at what is to come in the 21st Century.

As for me, I would not mind the technology; so long it is hidden in the fairing of my Harley Davidson Electra Glide!

CLICK HERE TO watch a video on the new Honda Asv-3 motorcycle, and tell me what you think!

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

Most Motorcycle Accidents happen within 3 miles of your Home!

Ride the roads you know as carefully as the roads you don't know!

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

I just read an outstanding article by Stan Henderson, Indiana State University associate professor of health and safety. He states among other things that:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

Michelin has announced a recall of some motorcycle tires. Anybody who is using the below tires needs to get them replaced. If you are not sure what tires you are using on your motorcycle go inspect them now to make sure they are not the subject of the below recall. Below is the press release about the tire recall.

GREENVILLE, S.C., June 15 /CNW/ -- Michelin has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Transport Canada that it is recalling Michelin(R) Pilot(R) Power 2CT and Pilot(R) Power 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) front motorcycle tires with the "Made in France" markings in the United States and Canada. This recall involves these specific tires only and has no impact on any other Michelin tires. Related actions are under way in other countries.

An examination of these tires showed a possible defect in the tread due to a manufacturing irregularity. No cases of pressure loss have been reported and no accidents have occurred.

Because rider safety is the primary concern, Michelin has decided as a precaution to replace the 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) Michelin Pilot Power 2CT and Michelin Pilot Power front tires, which can be identified by the following markings on the sidewall:

A "Made in France" label DOT 6UCW 980T or DOT 6UCW 979T

Any consumer in the United States or Canada who believes they are affected by the recall should not wait to receive notification but should call Michelin Consumer Relations at 1 866 324 2835.

The company will be replacing all potentially affected tires in a comprehensive commitment to retrieve from the market any tire that does not meet Michelin quality standards. Replacement tires are available at no cost (including mounting and balancing) to consumers through participating Michelin(R) motorcycle tire servicing retailers.

About Michelin

Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelin.com) employs more than 22,000 and operates 19 major manufacturing plants in 17 locations.

About the DOT Code and Tire Identification Number

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) markings serve as the tire's fingerprint and signify compliance with U.S. Tire Safety Standards. The DOT code can be found on the sidewall right above the rim printed in small type less than half an inch tall.

Make sure your tire is of the make and model:

Michelin(R) Pilot(R) Power 2CT or Michelin(R) Pilot(R) Power 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) Then, look for a DOT code 6UCW 980T or DOT 6UCW 979T on the sidewall.

If you are having difficulty identifying your tire's DOT code, please ask your local tire dealer to assist you or call Michelin Consumer Relations at 1 866 324 2835. End of Press Release.

If you have had an accident using these tires, you should contact the U.S. Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) and report it. You can get to their website by clicking here now. You should also consult with a lawyer. If you are anywhere in the State of California and have suffered an injury due to having an accident with any of these tires, you can give me a call at 818-584-8831 or go to my Biker Lawyer website by clicking here now or going to www.bikerlawyer.net.

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq., © 2007

I read an article somewhere with a list of the following Motorcycle Safely Pearls of Wisdom. I suggest that everyone reads each one!

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

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

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

Drivers making a left turn are the most dangerous.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Never be too proud to unlearn an old habit.

Never be too proud to take a motorcycle training course.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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