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5 common sun myths every driver should know about

Mazda MX5 driving in sunshine
Driving into the sunshine - but are you protected?

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24 August 2017

DID you know that you can get sunburn even when your windows are up? Many people don’t think about the level of sun protection required when driving a vehicle. If you drive a truck, the sun might feel nice shining on your face but when it goes through your windscreen it’s actually adding more risk. As the summer months draw to a close, it’s time to debunk common sun myths about the sun protection for drivers.

Myth #1: UV exposure in your car is highest in the summer.

Reality: Regardless of the season, exposure to UV rays is the same year-round. Even if you’re driving a vehicle in winter months, UV rays can reflect off white snow and be even more powerful than summer months.

Myth #2: You can’t get sun damage in the car when your windows are rolled up.

Reality: The sun’s rays can pass through windows and put drivers at risk of sunburn and eye conditions. This is especially the case for the right side of the car which receives up to six times the dose of UV radiation compared to the shaded side (research from Melanoma UK).

Myth #3: UV damage to the eyes can be reversed.

Reality: Sun damage to the eyes is cumulative, meaning the lasting damage can slowly build up. Over time this can really affect your vision and eventually lead to conditions such as cataracts. Make sure to keep your sunglasses on while on the road.

Myth #4: You don’t need to worry about wearing sunglasses while driving on a cloudy day.

Reality: UV rays can get through clouds and they only reduce the amount of UV by around 10 per cent. Overcast days can still leave you vulnerable to high levels of UV exposure so it’s important to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.

Myth #5: Wearing darker tinted sunglasses while driving will give you a higher level of UV protection.

Reality: The tint of the lens will have no effect on UV protection but will change the amount of light that goes into your eye. Check for a CE mark on your sunglasses to make sure they offer a good level of protection.

Be sun smart on the road!

Take precaution and be aware of the impact that the sun can have on you when driving a vehicle. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses will help give you the extra protection from developing skin cancer or an eye condition.

This article was contributed by Vision Direct, the UK’s leading online retailer for contact lenses.

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