assistant: Start by giving a common and reasonable, but still tragic accident related to not paying attention to traffic. Focus on the personal side and describe the long term impact of the resulting injuries.

Expand by comparing the decrease in driving performance between distracted driving from using a phone and driving under influence. While distracted driving is more common and causes less injuries than drunk driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the US 8% of fatal crashes in the year 2020 involved distracted driving.

Describe further the effects of distracted driving: using a phone takes the user's eyes of the road, requires them to do two things with their hands and splits their attention between two sources. Even talking on the phone with hands-free splits the drivers attention, and as the receiver of the call cannot see any difficult spot in traffic, they may continue to talk causing the driver to miss an on coming car etc.

Summarize by comparing the positive mental health benefit of clearing one's mind and focusing on driving compared to the potentially fatal or disabilitating chronic pain that can be the result of distracted driving.

assistant: Certainly! Here's a possible expanded version:

Tragically, every year countless cyclists are involved in accidents that could have been easily prevented if they had been paying more attention to their surroundings. One particularly heart-wrenching example is that of a young man who was so absorbed in his music that he failed to notice a turning truck until it was too late. This tragedy could have been avoided if he had simply taken a moment to be aware of his surroundings.

But it's not just individual accidents that are a concern. Distracted cycling can have a broader impact on road safety, as well. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2018 there were 783 cyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States alone. Distracted or inattentive behavior by cyclists was a contributing factor in many of these incidents.

So, what can be done to help prevent these accidents and keep cyclists safe? The solution is simple: focus. By paying attention to the road, traffic patterns, and potential hazards, cyclists can make informed decisions and react to unexpected situations more quickly. This increased awareness can help to prevent accidents before they happen, and can give cyclists the time they need to react appropriately if an unexpected situation does arise.

But the benefits of paying attention while cycling go beyond just personal safety. Focusing on the world around you can also make the experience more enjoyable. When you're fully present, you'll notice more of the beauty and details of the world around you. This increased appreciation can help you connect with your environment, leading to a deeper sense of satisfaction and happiness.

In conclusion, the cost of not paying attention while cycling is simply too high. The benefits of being aware of your surroundings far outweigh the risks, and can lead to a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience. So, next time you hit the road, take a moment to be fully present and stay focused on the ride ahead.