Our Hearing Blog

Hearing is not that important... right?

Hearing is important in so many ways. In fact, one of the most overlooked reasons is while driving! Hearing while driving is crucial for several reasons, as it plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and situational awareness on the road. Here are some key reasons why hearing is essential while driving:

1) Detection of Emergency Vehicles: Hearing allows drivers to perceive sirens and other audible warnings from emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars. Recognizing these sounds promptly can help drivers react appropriately by making way for these vehicles to pass quickly and safely.

2) Awareness of Surroundings: Sound provides valuable information about the environment around a driver. For example, hearing the honking of horns or screeching tires can alert drivers to potential hazards or aggressive behavior from other road users.

3) Approaching Traffic and Pedestrians: By hearing the sounds of approaching vehicles and pedestrians, drivers can anticipate potential risks and take necessary precautions. This is especially important in situations where visibility might be reduced due to weather conditions or other factors.

4) Detection of Vehicle Malfunctions: Unusual sounds, such as engine noises or squealing brakes, can be early indicators of mechanical issues in the vehicle. Recognizing these sounds allows drivers to address potential problems before they escalate and lead to breakdowns or accidents.

5) Warning Signals: Cars are equipped with various warning chimes and sounds, such as seatbelt reminders, low fuel alerts, or tire pressure warnings. Hearing these signals ensures that drivers are aware of important information related to the vehicle's condition and safety.

6) Communication: Hearing also allows drivers to communicate with passengers, other drivers, or pedestrians, enabling better coordination and understanding on the road.

7) Presence of Quiet Vehicles: With the increasing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles, there is a rise in the number of quiet cars on the road. Hearing becomes even more critical in such cases, as these vehicles might not produce as much noise at lower speeds, potentially making them harder to notice for pedestrians and other drivers.

Overall, hearing complements the visual cues drivers rely on while operating a vehicle. The combination of sight and sound helps drivers make well-informed decisions, react promptly to potential hazards, and maintain a safe driving environment for themselves and others on the road.

At Mid-America Hearing we offer FREE Hearing Exams, FREE Cognitive Screenings and our hearing aids start at $495.

Call today for an appointment: (417) 466-7196