Can driving with open windows cause irreversible harm to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows when you’re driving? Let’s take a new look at these issues.
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 invigorating wind rush in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to run the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? After all, why waste precious gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially hazardous to your ears?
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 various vehicles, from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during non-peak hours at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 MPH.
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.
Does this noise level present a risk of irreversible hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely cause irreversible 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 cause a rise in noise levels when windows are open?
Numerous elements can boost the noise levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
Most gas engines produce about 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing roughly 80% of gas-powered vehicles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines may provide a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can generate over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable whistling and whooshing noises, adding substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At only 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent studies. Driving with the windows down can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, especially since cars encounter increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the overall volume level. Along with the sound 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.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
Reduce the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these guidelines.
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer volumes.
- Utilize cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is recommended to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- In order to protect your hearing, refrain from blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about obtaining helmets that are specifically made to reduce the impact of traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close eye on your hearing health, particularly if you regularly drive with the windows up.
Essentially, cruising with the windows open can expose you to a variety of potentially damaging sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a risk to your auditory well-being.
By embracing preventative precaustions, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Call us today if you are worried about noise-related hearing loss.
