It is illegal to wear headphones while driving in Florida and 15 other U.S. states. The penalties for operating a motor vehicle while wearing a headset vary. If you get hit by a driver who is wearing headphones, you can hire a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer who can help you get compensation from the at-fault motorist.
Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath is a leading choice for auto accident cases in Florida. If you need a Florida car accident attorney who is ready to help you in any way possible, we are here for you. To get started, please reach out to us today.
Are headphones legal while driving?
As of August 2023, the following states have established laws that indicate it is illegal to drive with headphones:
- Alaska
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
- Washington
There are some exceptions to laws surrounding the use of headphones while driving. If you are unsure of whether you are allowed to wear a headset while driving where you live, check local laws. That way, you can follow the rules of the road and avoid a fine that otherwise comes with illegally driving while you wear a headset.
If a driver claims they got into an accident due to the fact that they were wearing headphones, they can still be held responsible for the incident. At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we can connect you with a personal injury lawyer who can help you win or settle your car accident case. For more information, please get in touch with us for free.
Is it legal to wear headphones while driving in Florida?
It is against the law to wear headphones while driving in Florida. This is in accordance with Florida Statute §316.304. If you violate this statute, you can be charged with a moving violation and receive a fine of $150.
Drivers must practice caution when they take the road in Florida or elsewhere. If a driver wears headphones, they can get distracted. This can lead to an accident that causes an injury or wrongful death.
Following a car accident where the at-fault driver was wearing headphones, it is in your best interests to pursue damages. When you have an experienced car accident attorney in Florida at your side, you are well-equipped to do just that. Your lawyer can file your lawsuit and help you build a case that compels a judge or jury to award you the most compensation possible.
Can you wear one earbud while driving?
In states where there are no laws in place regulating the use of headphones when driving, you can wear one or two earbuds. Comparatively, it is illegal to wear even one earbud while driving in the following states:
- Alaska
- California
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Ohio
- Virginia
- Washington
Florida and eight other states allow you to wear one earbud while you drive. If you wear an earbud while operating a vehicle in these states, you can use it for cell phone calls. In instances where you are using one earbud to listen to music or a podcast, you can be punished under the state’s law.
What should I do if I get into an auto accident with a driver who was wearing headphones?
Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can put you in touch with a car accident attorney in Florida who can help you file a claim against a negligent motorist. To learn more or request a free consultation, please contact us online or call us at (561) 655-1990.
