[DigitalToday reporter Jae-won Choi (최재원)] Whether drivers can wear earphones, headphones or earbuds varies by U.S. state. On Aug. 11, local time, IT outlet Engadget reported that no U.S. state has a blanket ban on wearing such devices while driving, but many restrict use that covers or blocks both ears. California and Maryland prohibit drivers from wearing headsets or earphones in both ears, and Louisiana bans wearing them in both ears but allows use in one ear.

By contrast, Arizona, Texas and Alabama do not impose separate restrictions on wearing earphones itself. Even without an explicit ban, if it is combined with operating a mobile phone or is judged to have reduced driving ability, it could become an issue under careless-driving rules in places such as Nevada and Michigan.

Some states set more detailed exceptions. A typical approach allows one-ear use but bans wearing them in both ears. Colorado and Georgia allow one-ear earphone use for phone calls, while Alaska treats certain situations, such as using GPS, as exceptions. Ultimately, drivers should check both the earphone-related laws and driving rules in their state.

Even if wearing earphones is legally allowed, it is hard to recommend from a safety perspective. Hearing is very important in driving for understanding surrounding conditions. Earphones that cover both ears can make it difficult to hear sirens, horns and the sound of approaching vehicles, and can raise the risk of accidents.

Legal liability can also grow if a crash occurs. Even if earphones were not the direct cause, they can be grounds to argue the driver did not sufficiently recognize surrounding conditions. In areas where comparative negligence or contributory negligence applies, compensation could be reduced or not paid at all.

There are already many alternatives. Most vehicles can connect music and calls to speakers via Bluetooth, AUX or USB, and older vehicles can provide similar functions through adapters and other means.

Wearing earphones while driving may be legal in some areas, but experts agree it is better to avoid it given safety and legal risks.