Can driving with open windows cause permanent damage to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a fresh viewpoint on these questions.
Picture this: It’s a serene early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the freeway almost deserted, you travel along at a comfortable 55 MPH, enjoying the cool breeze through your open windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to run the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? After all, why waste precious gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down pose risks to your hearing?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? Researchers in the UK carried out experiments with numerous 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.
Could this level of noise present a hazard of causing lasting harm to one’s hearing?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour time frame can result in irreversible hearing loss.
In heavy traffic conditions where exposure exceeds 100 decibels, hearing damage can happen within a mere 15 minutes.
What contributes to escalated noise with open windows?
While your vehicle might seem loud, several factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid combustion in their cylinders, accounting for approximately 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might offer a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can generate over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable whistling and whooshing sounds, contributing substantially to the total ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At just 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent research. Given that cars experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows down can certainly impact your hearing.
Traffic magnifies noise
Each passing vehicle, 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 vehicles passing by, which adds to a louder overall environment.
Tips for minimizing risks and ensuring safe driving
If you enjoy driving with windows open, think about these steps to minimize hearing loss risks:
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, alternating between windows open and closed.
- One way for owners of convertibles to minimize noise exposure is to put up the windows while keeping the roof open.
- Use smartphone applications to monitor the levels of noise in regular traffic situations (avoid utilizing them when operating a vehicle).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is recommended to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- To safeguard your hearing, refrain from blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about purchasing helmets that are especially made to decrease the impact of traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows up.
Essentially, driving with the windows rolled down can subject you to a range of potentially damaging sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a threat to your auditory well-being.
Taking measures to safeguard your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still enjoying the thrill of driving with the windows open.
Call us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.
