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Can I get a ticket for wearing earplugs while driving?
Whenever I drive my kids to school, I can barely hear myself think—especially when we carpool. To regain some calm in the madness, I put my earplugs in so I can drown out the noise. Can I get pulled over and ticketed for driving while I have earplugs in?
Kaitlin May · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It sounds like you’ve got a full plate, and you’re one amazing parent! The laws around driving with earplugs ultimately depend on the state you live in. In some states, like Maryland, it’s completely illegal.
The majority of states tend to have a one-ear rule. It’s widely acceptable to have one ear that’s free of an earplug, earphone, or Bluetooth device while you’re driving.
One scenario that could impact how “legal” earplugs are would be in a car accident. If you were driving with your hearing obstructed by earplugs or earphones in the event of an accident, you could be charged with either:
- Negligent driving, which is a lesser charge, or
- Reckless driving, which has more severe penalties
Either ticket could result in fines, points on your driving record, or even a license suspension. It’s safest to avoid wearing any form of earplugs if you’re physically able to since that can help you stay alert and steer clear of any infractions.
Even though it’s possible to get traffic charges reduced over time, moving violations of any kind are sure to increase your insurance premium. With a car insurance shopping companion like
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