The hidden danger while driving on a hot day that could cause health problems

Across the UK, motorists are unaware that they could be giving themselves sun damage while driving. 

New research has revealed how drivers could be at risk and that you’re more likely to be damaged on the right-hand side as it is the most exposed to the sun.

An experiment conducted by Confused.com and skin cancer charity Melanoma UK exposed why drivers are at risk.

According to leading dermatologist Dr. Christian Aldridge, a representative from Melanoma UK, said that glass, much like clouds, does not protect you from UV radiation.

These harmful rays can pass through the windscreen and closed car windows, putting motorists at risk of asymmetrical sun damage. 

One study showed the side of the body next to the window can receive up to six times the dose of UV radiation compared to the area of the body in the shade.

The research highlighted that not all drivers are aware of the risks of sun damage while driving, with almost half (49 per cent) claiming they were unaware of the dangers.

However, 20 per cent of respondents revealed that they had suffered from suburb while on the road.

It also became apparent that not all drivers are thoughtfully protecting themselves from potential damage.

In fact, almost a fifth (19 per cent) of UK drivers have never applied an SPF to their skin in the UK, despite studies showing long-term exposure to the sun while driving can lead to wrinkles, leathering, sagging and even skin cancers.

The onset of these things could be turbocharged by the prolonged hours of sunshine during the heatwave Britain has been experiencing as of late.

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com, says: “We have been very fortunate to have had some warm weather the past few weeks, but many drivers don’t realise they could burn even through the windows of their car! 

“Our experiment highlights how important it is to apply sun cream in this weather, especially if you’re a frequent or commercial driver.

“With one in five (20 per cent) drivers having suffered from sunburn while travelling in the car, applying sunscreen before jumping behind the wheel is equally as important as if you are sunbathing.”