Is driving with the windows down harmful to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a new viewpoint on these questions.
Picture this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost empty, you travel along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the refreshing breeze through your open windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? What’s the point of squandering valuable gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially harmful to your ears?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not that loud? British scientists carried out tests using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was less traffic, traveling at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.
Their findings were consistent: irrespective of the vehicle model or speed, driving with windows down exposed the driver to a near-constant noise level of 89 decibels.
Could this volume of noise present a danger of causing lasting harm to one’s hearing?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can cause permanent damage to one’s hearing.
In heavy traffic conditions where exposure exceeds 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors contribute increased noise with open windows?
While your vehicle may seem loud, several factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
Engine and vehicle types
The majority of gas engines generate around 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, accounting for approximately 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller 4-cylinder engines might provide a quieter ride. Alternatively, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can generate more than 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Wind resistance
The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your car can dramatically add to the total noise level, even in fairly quiet cars. At just 15 MPH, cyclists are exposed to 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent research. Given that cars experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows down can indeed impact your hearing.
Heavier traffic leads to louder noise
Every passing car, even on multi-lane freeways, adds to noise amplification. Along with the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air produced by other vehicles passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these steps.
- Remember to take breaks while on long road trips by switching between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer levels.
- Use smartphone applications to monitor the levels of noise in regular traffic situations (steer clear of utilizing them when driving a vehicle).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to avoid extended exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, invest in 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 expose you to a variety of potentially damaging sounds, including the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a risk to your auditory health.
By adopting precautionary precaustions, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Call us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.
