Playing Loud Music While Driving in NJ: How It Increases Crash Risk

Listening to music while driving is a common practice. Whether it’s to boost your mood or pass the time on a long commute, many New Jersey drivers enjoy turning up their favorite tunes. But what happens when that music becomes a hazard?

Playing loud music while driving can be more than just a distraction—it can increase the risk of an accident. The inability to hear surrounding traffic, emergency vehicles, or even your own vehicle’s warning sounds can put you and others in danger.

If you’ve been injured in a crash due to another driver’s reckless behavior, including distractions caused by loud music, you have legal options. This guide will help you understand your rights and the steps you can take to pursue a personal injury claim in New Jersey.  

The Impact of Loud Music on Driving

Loud music affects driving in more ways than you might think. Studies have shown that excessive volume can reduce reaction time, impair concentration, and increase risky driving behaviors. Here’s how:

Loud Music Reduces Awareness of Surroundings

Drivers rely on their hearing to detect warning signals, such as:

• Emergency vehicle sirens
• Car horns signaling danger
• Screeching tires from an approaching vehicle
• Pedestrians or cyclists shouting to warn of a hazard

When music is blaring, it can drown out these critical sounds, increasing the likelihood of missing important warnings and leading to delayed reactions. This is particularly dangerous in urban environments where traffic congestion is high and quick decision-making is crucial.

A study conducted by Brunel University in London found that listening to loud music, particularly songs with more than 120 beats per minute, can cause drivers to become more aggressive behind the wheel. The research also suggested that when music reaches an extremely high decibel level, drivers are less likely to hear external sounds that signal an approaching hazard.

Distracted Driving and Delayed Reaction Time

A study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that loud music can slow reaction times by up to 20%. That fraction of a second can be the difference between a close call and a serious accident.

In high-speed or high-traffic conditions, quick reflexes are essential. When your brain is processing intense auditory input, it struggles to react swiftly to visual stimuli, such as sudden stops or lane changes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has classified loud music as a form of distracted driving because it interferes with a driver’s ability to process multiple sensory inputs at once.

Psychological and Behavioral Impact

The type of music you listen to can also affect your driving behavior. Studies suggest that:

• Fast-paced music (above 120 beats per minute) can subconsciously encourage speeding.
• Aggressive or intense music can trigger road rage or impulsive decision-making.
• Relaxing or slow-tempo music can reduce stress but may also lead to over-relaxation, impacting attentiveness.

Keeping your music at a moderate volume and choosing less aggressive tunes can help maintain focus and safety on the road.

Additionally, younger drivers may be particularly susceptible to the effects of loud music. A study conducted by Ben-Gurion University found that teen drivers who listened to loud music made significantly more driving errors, including excessive speeding and missing road signs. This highlights the additional risk posed by high-volume music, especially among inexperienced drivers.

Could Driving While Playing Loud Music Lead to a Car Crash?

Yes. Loud music-related distractions are a recognized factor in many crashes. A notable case in New Jersey v. Englewood Driver (2018) highlighted how excessive music volume contributed to reckless driving, which ultimately led to a serious accident.

Another case, State v. James (2019), involved a driver who was unable to hear an approaching ambulance, failed to yield, and had a multi-car collision. The court found the driver negligent, citing that playing excessively loud music impaired the driver’s ability to drive safely.

Such cases highlight how loud music can lead to negligence claims and even criminal charges in New Jersey.

According to New Jersey State Police accident reports, distracted driving was the leading cause of fatal crashes in 2022, accounting for nearly 20% of all accidents. Loud music, while not always directly cited, is considered a form of distraction that can contribute to this growing problem.

Legal Issues That Could Arise From Playing Loud Music in Your Car

New Jersey has laws that address excessive noise from vehicles. Under NJ Noise Violation Laws (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2c):

• Drivers can be fined $250 to $500 for playing music at a volume that exceeds legal noise limits.
• Repeat offenders face steeper penalties, including potential points on their driver’s license.
• If an accident occurs and investigators determine that loud music is a contributing factor, liability for damages may increase.

Additionally, reckless driving laws (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) could apply if excessive noise leads to dangerous driving behavior. Reckless driving carries penalties, including:

• Up to 60 days in jail for a first offense
• Fines range from $50 to $200
• Points on your driving record, which can increase insurance rates

If a driver’s loud music contributed to an accident, victims may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim. Proving liability in such cases may require witness testimony, police reports, and expert opinions on how loud music affects the driver’s behavior.

Involved in an Accident Due to Loud Music? Consult with an Experienced Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by another driver’s reckless behavior—including distractions from loud music—you have the right to seek compensation. A personal injury attorney can help you:

• Gather evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence
• Assess your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure fair compensation

Steps to Take After an Accident Caused by a Distracted Driver:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and ensure a police report is filed.
2. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
3. Collect Witness Statements – If anyone saw the accident, their testimony can be valuable.
4. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can develop over time.
5. Consult a Lawyer – An attorney can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

At Rosengard Law Group, we understand how devastating car accidents can be. We fight to ensure our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you were involved in a personal injury case in Cherry Hill, consult with a Cherry Hill personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

Call us at (856) 284-6446.