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As we hit the summer months and hopefully more sunshine, many of us will be kicking off our shoes to don our flip flops and expose our toes. But where do we stand if we want to drive barefoot?
In this, Is it legal to… we look at the legality of getting behind the wheel with no shoes or our flimsy flip flops.
In September 2022, RAC published that 40% of women take to the roads in high heels, while 39% wear flip-flops and 24% go barefoot.
Over a quarter of male drivers (27%) admitted to driving in flip-flops too, while 22% will also wear nothing on their feet.
The simple answer is no, it is not technically illegal to drive barefoot. However, the law is never simple…
Whilst there is no law against someone driving barefoot, it is not recommended. If a police officer believes you do not have complete control over your vehicle when driving and pulls you over, only to discover your fresh pedicure proudly on display, you could be prosecuted for s41D Road Traffic Act (RTA) 1988:
“As to not driving a motor vehicle in a position which does not give proper control or a full view of the road and traffic ahead, or not causing or permitting the driving of a motor vehicle by another person in such a position.”
If you are found guilty of an offence, you are likely to receive between 3-9 points on your licence – however if there are any consequences as a result of your offence, you could be charged with undue care and attention.
s3ZA of the Road Traffic Act (RTA) 1988 defines the meaning of driving without due care and attention:
A person is to be regarded as driving without due care and attention if (and only if) the way they drives falls below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver.
If you would like advice on any driving offences, please contact our experienced Crime and Motoring team at Fosters Solicitors.
Our specialist Motoring team have a wealth of experience in supporting clients through the entire range of motoring offences, including speeding, careless and dangerous driving and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
We also act for those being investigated or prosecuted by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), and new drivers committing offences under their probationary licence.
Please call us on 01603 620508, or complete our contact form.
This article was produced on the 19th June 2024 by our Crime & Business Defence team for information purposes only and should not be construed or relied upon as specific legal advice.
