What is considered a distracted riding behavior?

Using a mobile phone while riding is considered a distracted riding behavior because it diverts the rider's attention away from the road and the immediate task of controlling the motorcycle. Engaging with a mobile device significantly impairs the rider's ability to focus on critical visual and auditory cues necessary for safe riding, such as observing traffic conditions, responding to hazards, and maintaining awareness of surrounding vehicles and road users.

The act of checking messages, making calls, or navigating can lead to delayed reactions and poor decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents. This behavior can severely compromise the safety of the rider and others on the road, as it removes a portion of their focus from the task at hand—operating the motorcycle safely and responding to the dynamic environment of modern roadways.

In contrast, riding in full protective gear, adjusting mirrors before a ride, and listening to music through headphones, while they may have varying degrees of impact on safety, are not classified as activities that distract a rider in the same manner as using a mobile phone. Wearing protective gear is proactive safety behavior, adjusting mirrors is a necessary part of preparing to ride, and listening to music, while potentially distracting, does not have the same level of distraction as actively engaging with a mobile device.