Driving While Using Headphones in Toledo

Driving while using headphones in Toledo can be a risky move. In Ohio, it is also illegal. Even if you are driving outside of Ohio, you should probably not risk wearing headphones as it can increase the chances of an accident. Also, many other states also outlaw the wearing of headphones while driving. Do not hesitate to get in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer who can work diligently to protect your rights.

Dangers of Driving While Wearing Headphones

Driving while using headphones in Toledo amounts to distracted driving. If a person is wearing headphones, they are less likely to hear traffic noises and signals. For example, if other cars are honking to warn a driver of danger or a traffic officer is blowing a whistle to notify drivers of changes in traffic, those are sounds a person will not hear while wearing headphones.

Furthermore, a driver wearing headphones will be unable to hear the sounds of emergency vehicles, such as ambulances or police cars. This will prevent them from moving out of the way which not only places them at risk but other people as well.

Ohio Laws on Headphones and Driving

The law prohibits the use of headphones or earbuds while driving. This does not include listening to the stereo. This law does not apply to individuals wearing a hearing aid. It also does not apply to on-duty fire department workers, emergency medical service providers, or law enforcement personnel.

Other individuals who are exempt from this law are construction workers who are using equipment while fixing the highway. This also does not apply to sanitation workers who are collecting garbage.

Penalties for Driving With Headphones On

Individuals who are caught driving while using headphones in Toledo can be found guilty of a minor misdemeanor. With this law, the consequences do not include jail time but can go up to a fine of 0.=

During the same year, if a person had another traffic violation before, this would be a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. The fine for this violation can go up to 0. It also brings with it the potential of a thirty-day jail sentence.

Finally, if an individual had two traffic violations earlier in the same year, it would be a misdemeanor of the third degree. The maximum fine for this charge is $500, and a person may also face up to 60 days in prison.

Benefit of a Toledo Car Accident Lawyer

Driving is stressful and difficult enough, driving while using headphones in Toledo can add to that stress by distracting you from the road, increasing the likelihood of getting into a car accident. Furthermore, because driving while using headphones is illegal, you put yourself at risk for getting arrested. However, if you are injured due to distracted driving with headphones on, get in touch with a skilled attorney that can advocate for you.