Driver/Rider Distractions

[the Ferret]

You know I don't know that there are anything much distracting that I see motorcyclists do that I consider dangerous. I would think programming a GPS on the fly might qualify as distracting and dangerous, but I don't know that I've ever seen anyone doing that. Did see a motorcyclist on a cell phone one time and thought that was stupid/dangerous.

I think, excessive speeding or using the street as a race track, weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, changing lanes without signaling all dangerous things for a motorcyclist to do.

I don't consider using my point and shoot lanyard camera any more dangerous than lifting my helmet visor for air or lowering it, checking my mirrors or checking the speedometer, or the gas gauge. No more dangerous than looking at a traffic sign on the side of the road, or at a motorcyclist going the opposite direction to see what kind of bike he is on, or looking at some feature or scenery on the side of the road. If you can't take your eyes of the road for a second there is no sense riding your motorcycle anyplace beautiful or interesting. You have to know when you can look away and what situations require your full attention.

I think as a group motorcyclists are pretty good at situational awarness and avoiding unnecessary distractions.