The National Transportation Safety Board this week approved recommendations for motorcycle safety focusing on passage of mandatory helmet-use laws in all states, reports the American Motorcyclist Association. But the panel did not deal with other significant issues related to the safety of riders on the road.

The recommendations, which do not carry the force of law, come a year after the NTSB held a public forum on motorcycle safety that gathered comments from motorcycle manufacturers, researchers, trauma physicians, law enforcement officials, insurance companies and motorcycle associations, including the AMA. Those groups expressed support for a wide range of motorcycle-safety initiatives, including campaigns against alcohol impairment, increased opportunities for rider education and stricter enforcement of licensing laws. In the end, though, the panel's final report focused almost exclusively on the helmet-law issue.

Read more: AMA Says New Federal Safety Recommendations Come Up Short

If you have been out riding lately, you have probably seen the billboards “Be Nice. Look Twice. Save a Life.”

There are 19 in all located in the cities of Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pompano, Daytona and Lakeland. The billboards are the culmination of Tina McElhenny’s efforts dedicated to bring attention to the importance of motorcycle safety.  Tina’s son Kris McElhenny was killed in on May 08, 2002 after his motorcycle struck a vehicle that failed to yield to his right of way. In her son’s memory, Tina and her family started the K-Mc Sports Foundation and worked with the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association to get the billboards donated for the project.

The foundation hopes to expand its reach to fully encompass Florida and eventually expand into Georgia.  For more information please visit K-Mc Sports Foundation.

Photo courtesy of kmc-sports.com

The FL DOT has enhanced its 511 traffic information update. You can now set up profiles of your regularly traveled routes through their website and receive this information when you dial 511 from your cell phone. The 511 system updates you on traffic delays, construction , etc. on Florida's major highways to help you avoid accidents and congestion .

The service is free from any cell phone (your minute charges still apply) Dial 511 for traffic conditions or visit the website at www.fl511.com .