Headphones, AirPods and the like have long been part of everyday life for many - even behind the wheel. Whether for navigation, phone calls or noise cancellation: the small devices are practical, but can quickly become a danger on the road.
Wearing headphones while driving is generally permitted - as long as you are not distracted from the traffic. If you are no longer aware of warning signals such as sirens or horns, you risk a warning fine and, in the event of an accident, even being partly at fault. The following also applies when using headphones on the phone: what is not distracting is allowed.
In this article, you will find out which rules apply when driving with headphones, where the limits of use are and what the consequences are in the event of an accident.
- Headphones can be helpful in road traffic, for example for navigation and voice control. However, they can also be distracting and pose a danger.
- German law draws the line at the extent of distraction: anyone who is unable to concentrate on the road risks a fine of 10 euros.
- The same applies to talking on the phone with headphones: it is permitted as long as you are focussed on the road.
- Anyone involved in an accident while wearing headphones in road traffic must expect to pay at least a partial debt to be attributed to the company.
Can you drive a car with headphones?
Many people wonder whether driving with headphones is allowed. In principle, there is no rule in the Highway Code that prohibits the wearing of headphones while driving. However, German law would not be German law if there wasn't a big "but". Headphones may only be used up to a certain level of distraction. This is derived from Section 23 of the German Road Traffic Regulations. This stipulates that hearing must not be impaired by devices while driving.
Anyone who listens to sound so loudly through their headphones (or blocks out ambient noise) that they can no longer hear sirens, horns etc. is a safety risk - and risks a 10 euro fine.
Talking on the phone with headphones while driving - is that allowed?
Now you could argue that using headphones makes it much safer to drive through traffic. You have your hands free, are less distracted and can concentrate better on driving. And indeed: in principle, making phone calls with headphones - similar to using a hands-free system - is permitted. Ultimately, however, the restrictions in Section 23 of the German Road Traffic Act (StVO) also apply here, according to which drivers may only use such technology as long as they are not distracted from road traffic.
Accident caused by headphones while driving - What rules apply?
Every electronic gimmick in and on the car harbours the potential for distraction. One button pressed too many, one attention-grabbing signal tone too many, one message spoken into the microphone that is too touching: in the moment of distraction, you have quickly caused a rear-end collision or worse. And now? If you are distracted and cause an accident, even if you are not solely responsible for the damage, you will have to accept at least partial blame.
The situation is similar with car insurance. This often only covers part of the repair costs incurred. In order to avoid having to pay unnecessarily, it is therefore better to exercise caution - or even better, to avoid headphones completely when driving and rely on the on-board hands-free functions.
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Frequently asked questions about headphones when driving
Can I drive a car with headphones?
Yes, this is generally permitted. There is no explicit prohibition in the Highway Code. However, it is important that you can still hear all traffic noises (e.g. sirens, horns). Otherwise you could be fined.
Is talking on the phone with headphones while driving permitted?
Yes, as long as it is a hands-free device and you are not distracted by the call. The phone must not be held in your hand. It is crucial that you remain focussed on driving.
Who is liable in the event of an accident with headphones?
If an accident occurs and it can be proven that the headphones impaired your attention, you may be held partially responsible - even if the other driver was partly responsible.
Does the insurance pay in the event of an accident with headphones?
Motor vehicle liability insurance usually pays out, but can take recourse in the event of gross negligence. Your comprehensive insurance may reduce benefits if wearing headphones is deemed to have contributed to the accident.
