AS we drive along in our cars, we often switch on our radios or use Spotify to blast out some tunes.
But if your radio isn’t working or your phone isn’t connecting to your car, you may be tempted to plug in your headphones but is it legal – we explain.
Is it illegal to drive with headphones on?
There is no specific law that states you can’t wear headphones whilst driving.
However, your headphones prove to be distracting, you can be penalised.
This is due to music, podcasts or anything else your playing blocking out traffic sounds, emergency sirens, level crossing signals and noises made by other road users meaning you could be a potential hazard for others.
Can you be charged for wearing headphones while driving?
Yes, the police can charge you if they believe you are driving in an unsafe manor.
Careless driving means you could receive an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points.
If the case is deemed to be more serious and it goes to court you could be paying a maximum of £5,00.
You could also receive nine penalty points and in some cases you could even be banned from driving.
the road laws you need to know
Why is it dangerous to wear headphones while driving?
In the same way driving while wearing flip flops could attract a fine, using headphones whilst driving could impede your ability to drive safely around others.
If you have an accident whilst listening to your favourite song, you could be considered at fault.
The Highway Code states drivers should concentrate and avoid distractions such as “loud music” to ensure they’re driving in a safe manner.
France made it illegal for road users to wear any device capable of emitting sound in their ears in 2015.
This includes headphones and any Bluetooth connected devices.
Anyone who breaks this law could face €135 (£120) fine and three penalty points.
Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research, said: “A really good driver uses all their senses to anticipate problems. “Cutting out your hearing could mean you miss key clues about the road surface such as black ice, or warnings from other road users.
“Added to that is the distraction factor of anything you have banging away directly into your ears.
“Some types of music have been shown to make drivers speed and be more aggressive, and that intimate podcast you saved up could be so good you start thinking about it and not the road ahead.
“Just like eating at the wheel anything that reduces your attention could make you a hazard to yourself and other drivers and riders, and that’s careless driving in our, and the police’s, eyes.
“It can be dealt with by a quick fixed penalty fine at the roadside so the chances of getting away with it if spotted are slim. So our advice is can the cans when driving.”
Is it illegal to wear headphones while riding a motorbike?
The Highway Code doesn’t stop motorcyclists from listening to music.
However, there are strict rules around it that cyclists should follow to avoid a fine and penalty points.
should ensure they have motorbike insurance, a good helmet and protective clothing, a well-maintained vehicle and ensure that they follow the Highway Code.
Point 148 of the Highway Code states: “safe driving and riding need concentration.
“Avoid distractions when driving or riding such as:
- “Loud music (this may mask other sounds)
- “Inserting a cassette or CD or tuning a radio.”
