British Medical Association calls for a ban on smoking in cars to protect the health of children

(17/11/2011)

and British Car Auctions highlights the financial advantages.

On the 16th of November, The British Medical Association has called for the extension of the current ban on smoking in public places after reviewing evidence of the dangers. It highlighted research showing the levels of toxins in a car can be up to 23 times higher than in a smoky bar.

But if these health issues are not enough to persuade smokers to stub out their in-car habit, then perhaps a hit on their wallet will. Leading vehicle remarketing company, British Car Auctions (BCA), suggests that any motorist that has smoked in their vehicle over a period of time will see a serious dent in the resale value.

“This is an incredibly important health issue – and we don’t want to undermine that by any means. But if drivers aren’t motivated by the health of their passengers, perhaps they will be by the diminishing health of their finances” said Tim Naylor, PR Manager, British Car Auctions. “Lighting up inside a car seriously devalues the vehicle for resale.

“Our research shows that presentation is one of the top factors influencing the price of used cars. So if a car is more like an ashtray on wheels, chances are buyers will move on to find one that looks and smells fresh as a daisy.

“Professional valeting can alleviate most of the effects of smoking, but is expensive and time consuming and might mean replacing some interior trim, such as nicotine-stained headlinings.”

Naylor concluded “Motorists should avoid having a cigarette in their car, especially if they intend to sell it in the near future. This will avoid the lingering smell of cigarettes in the interior, as well as eliminate the risk of scorch marks on the upholstery or dash. All of these things will put buyers off, even if they smoke themselves.”

Related categories:  Car insurance   Car safety