Divided Attention and Loss of Focus
While riding, your brain is fully focused on the road, traffic flow, and potential hazards. However, the moment your phone starts ringing, your focus is involuntarily split in half. A part of your brain begins wondering about the caller; thoughts like "Who is calling? Is it an emergency, or just a trivial argument?" occupy your mind, causing your focus on the road to shrink drastically. The human brain cannot fully process multiple complex tasks simultaneously; your attention scatters, and you fail to give the road the focus it requires.
Riding Blind: The Difference Between Looking and Seeing
You shouldn't do it, but let's say you answered the phone anyway. In that instance, you essentially become blind to the road. Even if your eyes are looking forward, your brain stops processing the visual information. In these exact moments, you will look at but fail to actually see a reckless driver changing lanes without a signal, a dangerous driver without mirrors, or a critical warning sign ahead. Distraction is an open invitation to an accident.
What Should You Do for Safe Riding?
- Set Your Navigation Beforehand: Set up your maps and routes before you start riding. Never play with your phone screen while in motion.
- Pause Communications: Trying to chat via an intercom or phone while on a motorcycle increases your cognitive load. Focus solely on the road.
- Pull Over Safely: If you absolutely must make an urgent call or change your route, always pull your motorcycle over to a safe spot and stop completely.
Remember, if the apocalypse actually happens and they need to inform you, don't worry, you will notice it somehow anyway. Keep your focus strictly on the road, ride safe!