Here’s what to look out for when listening to music while driving a motorcycle and what dangers lurk.
We all listen to music while we’re on the road. Modern technologies make it possible for you to listen to your favorite songs while riding a motorcycle. But what does the legislator say when you have integrated headphones and micros into the helmet and turn on the volume control?
According to the Road Traffic Code, all road users must behave in such a way that neither their vision nor their hearing are affected by technical equipment or other accessories. However, this is usually the case when you are listening to your favorite songs from your headphones while riding a motorcycle. As soon as the music is playing, sounds in your surroundings such as horns, sirens or warning signals at level crossings are suppressed.
Therefore, it is generally recommended to lower the volume of your music while you are driving. However, the use of headphones or headsets is not generally prohibited. When driving a car, for example, it is allowed to make calls with a headset. Bikers also have the opportunity to communicate with each other in this way. This is beneficial, among other things, if you are travelling in a group, want to achieve a common goal and want to agree on this in between.
Wearing Headphones When Riding A Motorcycle Is Allowed
According to a study, one in two pedestrians between the ages of 15 and 34 uses headphones. Half of cyclists on the road also love listening to music with their headphones on while cycling. Whether walking through the alleys, cycling or cruising on a bike, scientific evidence shows that the traffic noise is either attenuated or completely drowned out by music coming from headphones. An approaching bus is therefore hardly noticed in the worst case. The noise of the tram also no longer penetrates completely into the ear canals. In fact, it can have dire consequences if you don’t want to give up your headphones on the go.
In short, this means:
- Loud songs cover all kinds of traffic noises.
- When two different volume frequencies are close to each other, the quieter tones are barely or no longer audible.
- Loud music from headphones often contributes to the fact that people almost involuntarily retreat into their own world when listening. As a result, attention is waning and what is happening in the area is no longer fully perceived.
- When listening to music on your headphones in traffic, the reaction time automatically slows down. As a result, you might not be able to get out of the way in time for sudden obstacles.
Headphones For Motorcyclists
When driving a motorcycle, you are allowed to wear headphones. However, if an accident occurs because you could not brake in time due to the loud music, this may also affect the questions of guilt and may result in you being awarded a partial debt if necessary. In addition, it is possible that your motorcycle insurance will shorten your benefits. If you do not hear signals from the police, fire brigade or ambulance due to the loud music, a fine will also be imposed.