Can driving with open windows lead to permanent harm to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a new perspective on these questions.
Picture this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches before you, almost free of traffic, you settle into a leisurely pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to run 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 down pose dangers to your hearing?
What are the potential hazards connected to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British scientists carried out trials using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during 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 level of noise present a hazard of triggering long-term harm to one’s hearing?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can lead to permanent hearing loss.
In heavy traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors cause a surge in noise levels when windows are down?
While your vehicle might seem loud, several factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gas engines generate around 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, accounting for roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might offer a quieter ride. On the other hand, sports cars like Ferraris are capable of more than 100 decibels of noise, particularly when operating in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable whistling and whooshing sounds, adding substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At only 15 MPH, cyclists are exposed to 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent studies. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, especially since cars encounter increased wind resistance.
Increased traffic leads to louder sounds
Each passing vehicle, even on multi-lane highways, contributes to noise amplification. Besides the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further boosting overall noise levels.
How to reduce risks and ensure safe driving strategies
Decrease the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows down by following these steps.
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows open and closed.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer volumes.
- Utilize smartphone apps to monitor noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To avoid being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is advisable to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can worsen hearing damage.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, invest in helmets developed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows open.
Essentially, driving with the windows rolled down can subject you to a range of potentially damaging sounds, such as the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a threat to your auditory well-being.
By embracing preventative measures, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
If you are worried about hearing loss caused by noise, please contact us today.