Driving with headphones on is a dangerous distraction that makes it difficult for drivers to hear important audio cues, such as brakes screeching, horns honking, or sirens blaring from emergency vehicles. In Pennsylvania, it’s also illegal. 
Were you hurt in a car crash caused by a distracted driver? You may be entitled to pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses. If you or a witness saw the driver wearing headphones, earphones, or dual earbuds at the time of the accident, talk to an experienced Pennsylvania car accident personal injury attorney as soon as possible. This information could be vital to proving negligence and securing and full and fair recovery.
What the Law Says About Headphones and Distracted Driving Accidents
Section 3314(a) of Title 75 of the Pennsylvania 7 Consolidated Statutes, also known as the Prohibiting Use of Hearing Impairment Devices law, makes it illegal for drivers to wear headphones and other devices that prevent them from hearing the vehicles around them. It states:
No driver shall operate a vehicle while wearing or using one or more headphones or earphones.
However, there are exceptions. Section 3314(b) clarifies that, while it’s illegal to wear headphones or earphones while driving, drivers can use a cellphone headset that covers one ear to make or accept calls, as long as they’re able to hear surrounding sounds with their other ear.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Taking legal action and pursuing compensation on your own can be frustrating and time-consuming. Plus, it's complicated to decipher Pennsylvania's personal injury legal statutes.
If you were hurt in a Keystone State car crash by a distracted driver wearing headphones, there’s far too much at stake to go it alone. Let Heslin Law Firm handle your case from start to finish and fight to recover the compensation you deserve. We can:
- Investigate the accident to help determine fault
- Gather essential evidence
- Estimate the value of your damages, including lost income
- Handle communications with the defendant, their insurer, and their defense lawyer
- Arrange for experts to testify on your behalf
- Evaluate and negotiate settlement offers
- Prepare the case for trial
