Experts have warned that a common hot weather driving habit could damage your health. According to Darren Horne, Audiological Support Manager at Boots Hearingcare, when you’re driving with the window down at 70 miles per hour, wind noise inside the car can reach 90-100 decibels (dB), a level comparable to that of a power drill or attending a concert.
Speaking with MoneySuperMarket, Darren said many drivers may not realise just how loud it can get when driving with windows down. He said: “Prolonged or repeated exposure can start being harmful to hearing. Even just 15 minutes of driving at levels of 100 dB can be harmful to someone’s ears.”
For context, wind noises at 70 mph can match or exceed the noise of power tools, such as drills and saws, and be just below noise levels of being at a concert or nightclub.
Consequences Beyond Hearing
The consequences of driving with the windows open at speed are not limited to hearing health alone. Darren said: “At high noise levels, your ears and brain are constantly working harder just to pick up conversations, the radio and even external noises like car horns and sirens. That extra effort can lead to listening fatigue.”
Commenting on the prevalence of distracted driving, Alicia Hempsted, Van Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket says: “Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents on UK roads, and noise is a distraction that doesn’t get nearly enough attention. Car horns, sirens and other vehicle noises are all critical signals that drivers rely on for guidance, sometimes without even realising.”
Active Steps
“Protecting your hearing is something every driver can take active steps towards, with small changes like paying attention to radio volume and closing windows above 50mph speeds all making a difference. If you are noticing signs of hearing loss, it is important to speak to your doctor, or hearing professional, sooner rather than later. It is also worth being aware of your license obligations. Drivers who hold a group 2 license, required for heavier vehicles like lorries and buses, face higher medical standards to be considered fit to drive and must disclose hearing conditions to the DVLA, or face fines of up to £1,000.
“Most van drivers will be holding a standard group 1 license, and are not required to make the same disclosure, but it is always worth seeking guidance if you have any concerns about your fitness to drive.”
Drivers are advised to close their windows when driving at speeds above 50mph.
