Can driving with open windows cause irreversible damage to your hearing? Does it save on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Let’s take a fresh look at these issues.
Imagine this: It is a tranquil morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches before you, almost free of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it excessive to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? What’s the point of wasting valuable fuel?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open pose dangers to your hearing?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. British scientists conducted trials using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was minimal traffic, traveling 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 level of noise create a hazard of causing lasting damage to one’s hearing?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can result in irreversible harm to one’s hearing.
Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, like those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors create a rise in volume levels when windows are open?
While your vehicle may seem noisy, several factors can increase the decibel levels.
Engine and vehicle types
Most gas engines produce around 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing approximately 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might offer 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 significantly add to the total noise level, even in fairly quiet cars. Studies have shown that cyclists encounter around 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows down can have a noticeable impact on your hearing, particularly since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic magnifies noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes increases the total volume level. In addition to 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 mitigate risks and ensure safe driving practices
Reduce the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows down by following these guidelines.
- Don’t forget to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- One way for drivers of convertibles to minimize noise exposure is to put up the windows while keeping the roof open.
- Utilize smartphone apps to keep track of noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To avoid being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is recommended to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- Avoid drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can worsen hearing damage.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about purchasing helmets that are specifically designed to decrease the effect of traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you regularly drive with the windows up.
In summary, driving with windows down subjects you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, likely impacting your hearing health.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows open.
Contact us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.
