Welcome to the fourth article in our series, “Summer Driving Safety Tips and Tricks.” Today, we’ll explore the crucial topic of sun safety for drivers. If you missed our previous articles, be sure to check out our discussions on keeping your car cool, preparing for road trips, and handling heavy traffic.
The Importance of Sun Protection While Driving
Many drivers underestimate the impact of sun exposure during their time on the road. According to the Division of Dermatology/Department of Medicine, University of Washington, nearly 53% of skin cancers in the US occur on the left, or driver’s side of the body. This statistic highlights the importance of sun safety for drivers, especially during the summer months when UV rays are strongest.
Tips for Preventing Sunburn and Eye Strain
- Apply Sunscreen: Before hitting the road, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin, especially your face, neck, and arms. Remember to reapply every two hours or after sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants made from lightweight, breathable fabrics can provide additional protection. Consider investing in clothing with built-in UV protection.
- Use a Lip Balm with SPF: Don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
- Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles provide the best protection by blocking sun from the sides.
- Tint Your Car Windows: Consider having your car windows professionally tinted with a UV-protective film. This can block up to 99% of UV rays. Always ensure the tinting complies with local laws.
- Take Breaks in the Shade: On long drives, take regular breaks and seek shade when possible to limit cumulative sun exposure.
Recommended Sun Protection Gear for Drivers
- UV-Blocking Car Shades: Use removable mesh window shades to block direct sunlight while maintaining visibility. These are especially useful for protecting passengers, particularly children.
- Driving Gloves: Consider UV-protective driving gloves to shield your hands from sun damage.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: When parked or driving with the windows down, a wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection for your face and neck.
- Portable UV Index Monitor: These devices can help you keep track of UV intensity throughout your journey.
The Hidden Dangers of Sun Exposure While Driving
Many people don’t realize that while standard car windows block most UVB rays, UVA rays can still penetrate. UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer. Here are some key points to remember:
- Windshields are typically treated to block both UVA and UVB rays, but side and rear windows often are not nearly as effective.
- Sun damage can occur even on cloudy days, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover.
- Reflection from road surfaces can increase your UV exposure.
Protecting Your Eyes on the Road
Eye protection is crucial for safe driving. Sun glare can cause temporary blindness, increasing the risk of accidents. Consider these tips:
- Polarized Sunglasses: These reduce glare from reflective surfaces like other vehicles and wet roads.
- Anti-Reflective Coating: If you wear prescription glasses, consider an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare.
- Use Your Vehicle’s Sun Visors: Adjust them as needed throughout your drive to block direct sunlight.
- Avoid Looking Directly at Oncoming Headlights: At night, focus on the right side of the road to avoid being dazzled by oncoming vehicles.
Conclusion
Sun safety for drivers is an often overlooked aspect of road safety, but it’s crucial for both your immediate well-being and long-term health. By incorporating these sun protection strategies into your driving routine, you can enjoy your summer journeys while minimizing the risks associated with UV exposure.
Stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll discuss how to handle summer storms and drive safely in severe weather.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a traffic accident, Stillman & Friedland Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Call our Nashville team at 615-244-2111 for a free, confidential consultation. You can also reach out via our live chat or online contact form.
Stay safe and sun-smart out there, Nashville.
Because we care… Stillman and Friedland
