Scientists at Worcester Royal Hospital are warning that driving a convertible car with the roof down may put drivers at risk of damaging their hearing.

Lead researcher Dr Philip Michael – an ear, nose and throat specialist at the hospital – presented the findings of a study to the annual meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology in San Diego, California.

The UK team measured the noise levels of seven different convertible cars travelling at speed on the motorway with the top down. The cars reached speeds of 50, 60, and 70mph (80, 97 and 113km, respectively) and the researchers found that driving at such speeds in convertibles with the roof lowered exposed drivers to noises levels of around 88 to 90 decibels, with a peak of 99 decibels

The noise levels resulted from a combination of traffic noise, wind effects – and even road surface noise – although there were no significant differences between makes of car.

Dr Michael said:

‘Long or repeated exposure to sounds over 85 decibels widely recognized to cause permanent hearing loss. While motorcyclists are well versed in using ear protection, this study highlights that drivers of convertible automobiles may also be at risk of noise-induced hearing loss.’

He pointed out that the noise level of ‘normal’ conversation is 60 decibels, but that keeping windows in convertibles raised – even with the roof lowered – would reduce noise levels to around 82 decibels.

The findings of the study are published in the journal Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.

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