Can driving with open windows cause permanent damage 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 concerns.
Envision this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. With the highway almost deserted, you cruise along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, running the car’s air conditioner seems unnecessary, doesn’t it? What’s the point of squandering valuable fuel?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open present risks to your hearing?
What are the potential risks connected to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. British researchers 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.
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 level of noise create a danger of causing lasting harm to one’s hearing?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period 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 increased noise with open windows?
While your car might seem noisy, a number of factors can increase the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
Most gas engines produce around 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid combustion in their cylinders, accounting for roughly 80% of gas-powered vehicles. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Conversely, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can produce more than 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable whistling and whooshing noises, adding significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At just 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. Given that automobiles experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows down can indeed impact your hearing.
Heavier traffic results in louder sounds
Each passing vehicle, even on multi-lane freeways, contributes to noise amplification. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing cars, further increasing total noise levels.
How to reduce risks and ensure safe driving strategies
Reduce the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these steps.
- Remember to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer volumes.
- Use smartphone applications to track the levels of noise in typical traffic situations (steer clear of utilizing them when operating a vehicle).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is advisable to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can worsen hearing damage.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about obtaining helmets that are especially designed to decrease the impact of traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you regularly drive with the windows open.
Essentially, driving with the windows open can expose you to a range of potentially harmful sounds, including the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a risk to your auditory health.
Taking measures to protect your ears can help you preserve your hearing while still taking pleasure in the pleasure of driving with the windows open.
Get in touch with us today if you are worried about noise-related hearing loss.