No hesitation or disorientation hampers the flight. In their dash to safety, the prey fish do not collide. In an instant, they fan out as the predator approaches and regroup after the attack is over. Research suggests that individual fish don't follow any one leader, but adjust to their neighbors speed and direction. To accomplish this, fish constantly use sensory input from two organs, the eyes and the lateral line.
Scientist refer to the lateral line as a system of distance touch.
It permits fish to sense objects 20, even 30, feet away. Biologists have shown that fish can still school when either the eyes or lateral lines are disabled, but now when both are. Predator fish also use the same sensory organs to locate prey. Exposed to light. Predator fish school for a different reason, to kill more effectively.