Is driving with the windows down detrimental to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows when you’re driving? Let’s take a fresh look at these issues.
Envision this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. With the freeway almost empty, you travel along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, running the car’s air conditioner seems unnecessary, doesn’t it? After all, why waste valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down pose dangers to your hearing?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. Researchers in the UK carried out experiments with various vehicles, from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during non-peak hours at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 MPH.
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.
Does this noise level pose a risk of permanent hearing damage?
Indeed, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour time frame can lead to irreversible hearing loss.
Extended exposure to very loud noises, such as those exceeding 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in impairment in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors create a surge in volume levels when windows are open?
Various aspects can increase the noise levels even while your vehicle may already seem noisy.
Engine and vehicle types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines generate noise because of the swift combustion process taking place inside of their cylinders, which is a characteristic of around 80% of automobiles that use gasoline. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of over 100 decibels of noise, especially when operating in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, contributing significantly to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At just 15 MPH, cyclists are exposed to 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that volume increases to 120 dB, according to recent research. Driving with the windows down can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, particularly since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Each passing car, even on multi-lane highways, adds to noise amplification. Along with the noise of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other cars passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
How to reduce risks and ensure safe driving strategies
If you enjoy driving with windows down, think about these steps to reduce hearing loss risks:
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- For convertible drivers, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer levels.
- Utilize cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows up in heavy traffic to minimize prolonged exposure to loud noises exceeding 100 decibels.
- In order to safeguard your hearing, refrain from blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to mitigate 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 range of potentially harmful sounds, including the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a threat to your auditory well-being.
By adopting preventative measures, you can protect your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.
