The use of headphones while driving is not prohibited. Still, it's not always a good idea.
Question: “My car radio is broken. Can I listen to music through headphones instead? "
Answer by Stefan Ehl, motor vehicle expert at the expert organization KÜS: “The road traffic regulations do not provide for a specific ban on headphones at the wheel of a car. The use of a Bluetooth loudspeaker or a portable radio device is also not explicitly prohibited. However, this does not mean that these forms of music enjoyment are permitted without restriction. They have their limits when they impair the perception of their surroundings. For example, when the horns of St. Martin or the honking of other road users can no longer be heard properly. Then listening to music at the wheel is an administrative offense that is subject to a fine of 10 euros. If there is an accident, the music listener can be given partial debt. If such devices are picked up or used while driving, it is a violation of §23 StVO and is punished with a 100 Euro fine and one point in Flensburg due to the inadmissible distraction. If others are at risk, 150 euros and 2 points are due. If this leads to an accident, the fine increases to 200 euros.
The same rules as in the car also apply to cyclists and motorcyclists. Pedestrians, on the other hand, do not have to fear a fine even when listening to loud music. However, I advise caution. Because passers-by and cyclists are particularly vulnerable in traffic and even more dependent than drivers on a good perception of their surroundings. Loud music can drown out approaching vehicles or other hazards. There is also another risky effect: the distraction. On the one hand, the operation of a smartphone or MP3 player requires constant attention, which is then no longer in the area. On the other hand, some people withdraw into themselves when listening to music and then no longer properly perceive their environment - the “auditory bubble effect” is what science calls this psychological phenomenon. Incidentally, this applies to drivers as well as to pedestrians and cyclists. "
