Can driving with open windows cause permanent harm to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while 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. With the highway almost deserted, you travel along at a comfortable 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, using the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? After all, why waste valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open pose risks to your hearing?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? Researchers in the UK performed experiments with numerous vehicles, from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during non-peak hours at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 MPH.
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 lasting 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 exceeds 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors contribute increased noise with open windows?
Various aspects can boost the noise levels even while your vehicle may already seem loud.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
The majority of gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller 4-cylinder engines may offer a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
The whooshing and whistling sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can significantly add to the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. Studies have demonstrated that bicyclists encounter about 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows open can indeed impact your hearing.
Traffic magnifies noise
Each passing car, even on multi-lane highways, adds to noise amplification. Along with the noise 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 mitigate risks and ensure safe driving strategies
Decrease the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these steps.
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows open and closed.
- One way for drivers of convertibles to reduce noise exposure is to put up the windows while keeping the roof open.
- Use smartphone apps to keep track of noise levels in normal 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 closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- To safeguard 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 important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows open.
Essentially, driving with the windows open can expose you to a range of potentially damaging sounds, such as the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a risk to your auditory well-being.
By adopting preventative measures, you can protect your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please contact us today.
