Can driving with open windows lead to irreversible harm to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows when you’re driving? Here’s a fresh perspective on these questions.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost deserted, you cruise along at a comfortable 55 MPH, savoring the refreshing breeze through your open windows. On such a beautiful day, using the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? What’s the point of wasting valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down present dangers to your hearing?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not that loud? British researchers carried out trials using different makes of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, at times when there was minimal traffic, driving at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.
The researchers’ results were uniform: regardless of the type of vehicle or its speed, driving with the windows open subjected the driver to a nearly continuous sound level of at least 89 decibels.
Could this volume of noise present a hazard of causing long-term damage to one’s hearing?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour time frame can lead to permanent hearing loss.
In congested traffic conditions where exposure exceeds 100 decibels, hearing damage can happen within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors create a surge in volume levels when windows are open?
While your car might seem noisy, several factors can increase the decibel levels.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
Most gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid combustion in their cylinders, accounting for roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller 4-cylinder engines might provide a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your car can substantially increase the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. At only 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent research. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, especially since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the total noise level. Besides the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further increasing total noise levels.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
If you like driving with windows down, consider these steps to reduce hearing loss threats:
- Remember to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer levels.
- Utilize cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is recommended to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- Avoid drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, invest in helmets developed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, particularly if you regularly drive with the windows open.
Essentially, cruising with the windows rolled down can subject you to a variety of potentially harmful sounds, such as the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a threat to your auditory well-being.
Taking measures to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still enjoying the thrill of driving with the windows down.
Call us today if you are worried about noise-related hearing loss.
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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
