Summer is here. It's time to head outside and enjoy some fun in the sun. If you're going to be driving, you should know that the car doesn't protect you from the damaging effects of the sun. In fact, statistics show that 53% of all skin cancer cases occur on the left side of the body, which is the side of the body that's exposed to the sun while you're driving a car. Here are three steps you can take to protect yourself from sun exposure while you're driving.

Apply Sunscreen

Before you get in the car to go for a drive, be sure to apply a generous amount of sunscreen. You should pay close attention to your face, neck, ears and arms. Be sure to apply sunscreen to your legs if they're going to be exposed to the sun. For maximum protection, you should keep a spare bottle of sunscreen in your glove compartment. This will ensure that you're not without protection throughout the day.

Tint Your Windows

If your windows aren't treated with sun-protective film, you're only partially protected against sun damage. Studies show that automobile windshields protect against UVB and UVA rays. Unfortunately, the same studies show that the side and rear windows only protect against UVB rays. To provide maximum protection against sun damage, you should have your windows treated with a clear window film that provides total protection against UVB and UVA rays.

Once your windows are coated with the protective film, you and your passengers will receive maximum protection from the sun's harmful rays. It's important to note that the window film can only protect you against UVB and UVA rays if you keep the windows rolled up while you're driving. If you're going to have your windows rolled down, you still need to wear sunscreen while you're in the car.

Avoid Sunroofs and Convertibles

If you have a sunroof or a convertible, you should avoid using them during the summer months. Driving with the sunroof open or the top down on your car can expose your entire body to the sun's harmful rays. To protect yourself, keep the sunroof closed and the top up when you're driving in the hot, summer sun.

Summer is here. Time to protect yourself against sun exposure. Sun exposure can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. If you spend time outside in the sun, be sure to speak to your doctor about ways to protect your skin, so you can avoid having to deal with skin cancer surgery.