Legal Question about Driving and Harmonicas

[BZ00000]

Is it legal to drive a car and play the harmonica at the same time? I would use a hands-free device to hold the harmonica (like the holders guitar players use).

[Jpeg Jones]

Sure. As long as you don't try that vibrato thing using both hands.

[MikeG]

Legal I dont know about, but I do play the tinwhistle while driving. (when stopped at stoplights, in <2mph GODDAMN Chicago traffic, etc.)

Of course I do so at great personal risk (http://www.chiffandfipple.com/kneedriving.html) to myself and cannot in good conscience recommend this:)

[Mangetout]

The trouble is that even with those hands-free devices, you have to crane your neck forward considerably, you would also be somewhat motivated to keep your head in a forward-facing position, not to mention the possibility of distraction. I don't think the police here in the UK would let you get away with it; it could probably be described as 'driving without due care and attention' for the reasons stated above. I couldn't say how the police elsewhere might treat it.

[Telemark]

I remember Jonathan Edwards saying during a concert that he learned to play harmonica by using one of those hands-free units while driving cross country.

As for legality, don't know. Check with your local DMV, as it's probably different in the various states.

[Cliffy]

Most jurisdictions have laws against distracted driving; this would probably qualify.

--Cliffy