The dangers of topless driving

Evecars.com, eve Magazine's motoring website for women, is backing the Cancer Research Charity ‘Sun Smart’ campaign by urging drivers of convertibles to protect themselves and their passengers from the sun’s rays.

Lesley Jones, evecars.com editor said "We’re all so desperate to jump into our convertibles at this time of year that we forget that sun protection is an absolute must, even on a cloudy day. British women love their open-top driving, and we hope they’re ‘Sun Smart’ enough to know they should use a high protection cream, wear good quality sunglasses and a hat that won’t fly off in the wind when they take to the open road."

On average there are over 73,000 new cases of skin cancer reported every year. Around 1,800 people die from skin cancer in the UK each year – more than in Australia where the sun is undoubtedly much stronger.

"With women spending hundreds of pounds on anti-ageing products each year hopefully they will see sense in preserving their skin against the most powerful ageing element – the sun". continued Lesley Jones.

Drivers and passengers in convertible cars are more likely to get sunburnt as the wind masks the true strength of the sun. Children in particular must have their delicate skin protected at all times. It is advisable that children wear a ‘legionnaire’ type hat with fabric that covers the back of the neck for extra sun protection on longer journeys..

Genevieve Frisby, SunSmart Campaign manager said, "Make sure your skin doesn't burn in the sun this summer - sunburn can double your risk of skin cancer and is especially damaging in childhood. More people get skin cancer each year in the UK - those most at risk have fair skin, lots of moles or freckles, or a family history of skin cancer. The summer sun is most damaging to your skin in the middle of the day so, whether you are at home or abroad, spend some time in the shade, cover up with a shirt and hat and use factor 15+ sunscreen on exposed skin."

The UK is the second largest market for convertible vehicles in Europe, with car manufacturers undoubtedly chasing the female consumer with stylish special editions and sleek coupe convertibles. With women not settling down until their 30s and 40s, many are opting to splash their cash on cars before having kids. The UK’s roads are going to see a lot more women with wind in their hair who’ve found it hard to resist the allure of soft-top style.

Sales of cars to women are booming, with the biggest increase reported among those aged 29 to 44 with disposable income – and without children. The British motor industry will see almost 5 million car purchases by women this year – half the UK's forecast total sales. According to the RAC Foundation, women buy almost 50% of new or used cars, but have a deciding influence on 80% of purchases.