Listening to music in traffic: These rules apply

Is listening to music while cycling or driving a vehicle generally allowed – and what needs to be considered regarding the volume, if applicable? This is explained by the legal experts at Arag.

Symbolic image: Okay at home, but in traffic it applies: Adjust the volume and concentrate on the traffic. | Photo: AI-generated/DALL-E
Symbolic image: Okay at home, but in traffic it applies: Adjust the volume and concentrate on the traffic. | Photo: AI-generated/DALL-E

According to Arag, an older fundamental ruling from the era of the Walkman is repeatedly cited – which, however, remains valid.

Ruling of the Higher Regional Court

In 1987, the Higher Regional Court of Cologne (Ref.: Ss 12/87) ruled that headphones are not allowed while cycling if the volume is set too high. The same applies when driving a vehicle: loud music is also prohibited while driving a car.

The legal experts also refer to the road traffic regulations (StVO):

“Anyone operating a vehicle must ensure that their sight and hearing are not impaired.” (Section 23, paragraph 1).

Adjusting Volume

In principle, listening to music is therefore allowed while cycling, driving a car, or operating a truck. However, the volume must be set so that ambient noises - such as bells, horns, or sirens - can still be perceived.

Possible Fine

If the music is turned up too loud, this can result in a fine of ten euros, according to Arag experts. The legal experts also point out that in accidents, using headphones can even lead to partial liability and claims for damages or pain and suffering compensation.

It is also prohibited to search for your favorite song on your mobile phone while driving - depending on the risk situation, a fine between 55 and 100 euros may be imposed, according to Arag.

Therefore, headphones are recommended that allow ambient noise to pass through. This way, it is possible to listen to music while also perceiving traffic sounds. This also implicitly speaks against headphones with noise-cancelling technology, which filter ambient noise for better music enjoyment.

And for joggers and pedestrians who move in traffic, it also applies: keep the music volume low so that ambient noises remain perceptible.

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