Is there any danger in driving with your windows down in traffic, usually? Is all of that car exhaust safe?

Question

Is there any danger in driving with your windows down in traffic, usually? Is all of that car exhaust safe to breathe?

Answer 1

I don't think so. I keep my windows up in traffic and my car vent set on recirculate so it doesn't pick up any new pollutants from outside (or at least a minimal amount). If you are on the open road, then I see no problem with your windows open, but sitting in traffic could probably give you carbon monoxide poisoning after a while.

Answer 2

I guess there's always some risk. The pollution, exhaust, and smog are very bad for you and so if you have the option of closing your windows and breathe fresh air, you might as well.

Also, I'm afraid of driving with my window down and a truck passing by. I always imagine it kicking up a rock on the road and hitting me in the head. That happened to a friend of mine once and I've been paranoid ever since.

Answer 3

Carbon Monoxide is a deadly poison. It is a also a popular form of suicide, since the first symptoms are sleepiness. If you are in stop and go traffic then roll the windows up and put your fan on re-circulate, especially if, later, you fell like you want to throw up; the third symptom of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. CO1 poisoning is very subtle, you won't know about it until it is too late.

Answer 4

Guess you haven't heard of convertibles? It's not the exhaust that will kill you, it's when a big axx bug comes and smacks you in the forehead at 60 miles an hour, breaking your concentration, you lose control, wipe out, roll the vehicle, and then you're dead.

Answer 5

You probably suck up more dangerous fumes with your windows shut.

Answer 6

No, I always leave them open when driving for cool air or especially when I pass gas. :-)