An obvious danger to loud music in the car is the fact that as it become increasingly louder the ability to hear emergency vehicles decreases. The Ohio State Highway Patrol strongly cautions against using headphones while driving, although there is no law against headphones or dangerously loud music. In addition to causing decreased attention, loud music in confined spaces can cause significant, permanent hearing loss. Most hearing loss is gradual, beginning with the loss of occasional words, and long-term exposure can eventually lead to deafness. It is hard to avoid the noise though.
Noise is everywhere.
There can be harmful amounts in our jobs, entertainment, recreation, neighborhood, homes, and even in our cars. A majority of the causes for hearing loss can be prevented. There are many consumer products to protect hearing and there are many efforts being made to have local environmental noises controlled, including public events. The initial effects of hearing loss are the obvious ones. Being unable to hear well is an inconvenience, but most people learn to cope.