Motorcycles - It’s not that we ignore them on the highway nor is it that they sneak up and surprise us. The reason we don’t see them is a function of the human brain. We are wired not to see motorcycles unless they are conspicuous.
Our primitive brain was much more aware of potential danger than our civilized brain. In our ancestral past, we perceived threats to ourselves and our fellow tribesman and reacted by fleeing or fighting. However, contemporary man has lost the instinct to readily recognize danger or timely react to it.
What can be done to prevent colliding with a motorcycle, knowing that its difficult to recognize?
Well, first of all, motorcycle manufacturers have already recognized the problem and have made motorcycles more conspicuous by wiring its lights to remain on when the motorcycle engine is turned on.
Both automobile drivers and motorcycle riders must make a conscious effort to anticipate one another. This isn’t easy because it runs against our nature and biology, but with practice we can raise the level of our awareness.
