Measuring Traffic Noise for Different Types of Vehicles

Noise is a major cause of annoyance in urban areas. One of the major sources of noise is motor vehicles. In this study, noise generated from different types of vehicles was investigated by collecting and analyzing relevant field data. The results indicate that heavy trucks generate the highest noise followed by buses and trucks. On the other hand, pickup trucks and sedan vehicles generate the lowest sound levels. This study showed a direct correlation between vehicles' speed and their noise level and an inverse relationship between distance and noise. According to the results, the noise level values produced by vehicles in far lanes were, on average, 2.6 dBA lower than those generated by vehicles in near lanes.