Can driving with open windows cause irreversible harm to your hearing? Does it save money on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Here’s a fresh perspective on these questions.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost empty, you cruise along at a relaxed 55 MPH, enjoying the refreshing breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, running the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? After all, why waste valuable gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially dangerous to your ears?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British researchers carried out 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.
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 long-term harm to one’s hearing?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely result in permanent harm to one’s hearing.
In heavy traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can happen within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors contribute increased noise with open windows?
Various aspects can increase the sound levels even while your vehicle may already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
The majority of gasoline-powered engines produce noise as a result of the swift combustion process taking place inside of their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of vehicles that run on gasoline. A somewhat quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can produce more than 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can considerably increase the total noise level, even in fairly quiet cars. Studies have revealed that bicyclists encounter around 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, rising to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows down can indeed impact your hearing.
Increased traffic results in louder sounds
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the overall volume level. Along with the noise of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air produced by other cars passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
Tips for minimizing risks and promoting safe driving
Decrease the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows down by following these measures.
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer levels.
- Utilize cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to avoid extended exposure to loud noises exceeding 100 decibels.
- To protect your hearing, refrain from blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets designed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you regularly drive with the windows open.
Essentially, driving with the windows open can expose you to a variety of potentially damaging sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a risk to your auditory health.
Taking measures to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows down.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please contact us today.