If you're pulling an open deck trailer, (flatbed, step deck, carhauler, RGN, etc) you're going to be exposed to more of that hot summer sun than our brothers and sisters who pull van trailers. In my operation, I have to walk long distances outside to retrieve cars inside auctions and then bring them to my truck and load them. This process can take anywhere from 2-6 hours and all of it takes place in the elements. I've done this in rain which is no fun, but doing it in the hot summer sun will beat you down at the least and can give you a heat related injury at the worst. Water intake will keep most of those demons away, but I'll focus on skin protection from the sun in this article.
I went to the doctor a few years ago to get some spots on the left side of my face examined. Thankfully, they were not cancerous, however they were related to sun exposure. Just the fact that they were only on the left side of my face tells me that it’s from years in the driver’s seat. The doctor told me that I needed to start wearing sunblock while driving. I have applied sunblock from time to time while behind the wheel, but haven’t made it a habit as of yet. I find that the products are very greasy and even burn the skin. However, I do use sunblock when I'm loading and unloading during the summer months.
After that visit to the doctor, I decided to install window tinting on my rig from that point on and even installed it on my new SelecTruck Cascadia. The tinting helps reduce ultraviolet radiation (UVA or UVB) which accounts for about 90% of premature skin aging. Besides the skin protection, other benefits include reduced glare from headlights in your mirrors, protection for your interior, a cooler cab and less work for the AC. The tinting can reduce the heat penetrating your windows by 30-80%.
If you make the decision to add window tinting, I recommend going to a reputable installer because they are familiar with the laws in your state. The prices range from $80 to $150 so it's very reasonable for the value you'll receive down the line. If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you purchase the level of tint that is legal in your state. What’s legal in Florida won’t fly in a Virginia registered vehicle so check your local laws. Good luck to you professional drivers out there in staying cool this summer!