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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009
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4

Say What? Convertibles Harm Hearing

Noise can reach damaging 90 decibels at 50 mph

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(Newser) – Tearing down the road in a convertible with the wind whipping at your ears exacts the same kind of hearing damage as listening to a pile driver, scientists warn. Noise from the engine, road, traffic and wind can be as high as 90 decibels at speeds of 50 mph and higher, reports the BBC. Permanent hearing damage becomes a risk at 85 decibels. Drivers should consider wearing ear protection or simply roll up a window, which significantly reduces noise even with the top down, say scientists.

"Regular exposure to noise levels of 88 to 90 decibels when driving a convertible for several hours a day can lead to permanent hearing loss," warned a researcher.

Wear ear protection, roll up a window, or keep the top up, scientists recommend.
Wear ear protection, roll up a window, or keep the top up, scientists recommend.   (©Morning theft)
Don't listen to the open road.
Don't listen to the open road.   (©rogerimp)
I can't heeeeear you!
I can't heeeeear you!   (©flat-black 66)
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4 comments
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riffran
Oct 7, 09 2:26 AM CDT
they apparently have never been to a tractor pull... Reply
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Michael_CT
Oct 7, 09 3:15 AM CDT
And due to the exposure to the sun, they also lead to premature ageing of the skin. Deaf and Wrinkled is great look! Reply
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+2
jagerhans
Oct 7, 09 10:44 AM CDT
i guess that motorcycles are way worse. do your laws prescribe helmets in all states for bikers ? Reply
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cochiserocks
Oct 8, 09 5:28 AM CDT
ha ha ha - I love the idea of someone wearing a pair of bright yellow ear protectors while driving their new Ferrari spider down the riviera! - Reply
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