Is It Illegal to Drive in Flip Flops? Things to Know

The shoes you choose to wear while driving can be one of many factors to take into account. So is it illegal to drive in flip flops?

Well, the simple answer is no, driving in flip flops is not against the law, but there is a Highway Code that deals with the subject.

The footwear and clothing you choose to wear while driving must not interfere with your ability to operate the controls properly, according to Highway Code Rule 97.

However, there are some safety issues that you should be aware of if you are used to driving in flip flops.

Is It Illegal to Drive in Flip Flops?

Is it illegal to drive with flip flops?

Similarly to wearing flip flops, it isn’t illegal to drive in slippers, but it could result in a criminal charge if you’re in an accident and the police see that you’re not wearing suitable footwear for driving.

Driving calls for complete pedal control, and if there is even a slight chance that your foot might stray from the slippers, you risk losing control of the car.

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What Makes Flip Flops Dangerous?

While it is not illegal, driving in flip flops can be dangerous for several reasons. They can, in the first place, physically impair someone’s ability to drive.

Consider the scenario where you attempt to apply the brake but the sandal strap gets caught in the accelerator, preventing you from stopping.

Although it might seem like a freak accident, this exact scenario has caused fatal accidents in the past.

Sometimes, however, slipping on a pair of sandals can cause a driver to become distracted and look away from the road. For instance, if a sandal gets caught underneath a pedal, a person may have to take their attention off of driving and try to get it out.

Over 1,000 people are hurt every day in car accidents involving distracted drivers, according to the CDC. Accidents happen quickly and without warning.

Think about how a car can travel more than a football field at 60 mph in just five seconds. A driver may be held responsible for accident-related damages if their actions (including footwear selection) cause the collision.

However, a skilled attorney’s eye may be needed to identify the potential distractions that may have caused an accident. If you have concerns about your case, it might be time to enlist the aid of an experienced legal team.

Read More:

• Are Flip Flops Bad for Your Feet?
• What to Wear Instead of Flip Flops?

Is It Legal to Drive in Bare Feet?

Even though driving in bare feet is not illegal, it is not recommended.

According to the Driving Standards Agency, wearing the right footwear is crucial when driving.

It is not recommended that anyone drive barefoot because their braking ability will be reduced compared to when they wear shoes.

Without sufficient braking power, you run the risk of being involved in an accident that could harm both you and other motorists.

Can Driving in Unsafe Footwear Affect Insurance?

Many insurers will not provide compensation if it can be shown that a crash was caused by the driver’s carelessness or recklessness.

That might be the case if the authorities determine that the driver’s shoes contributed to the accident.

Conclusion: is It Illegal to Drive in Flip Flops

Regardless of the law, it is generally accepted by experts that driving in flip flops compromises safety. The same holds true for bulky sandals, hiking boots, and even pajamas.

Slip-on shoes such as flip flops and some types of high heels may allow the driver’s foot to slide out of the shoe, reducing the pressure on the brake pedal at a critical moment.

Drivers are advised to wear footwear that won’t come off their feet and has the right amount of support and flexibility to make operating the pedals simple.

Read More: Sandals Vs Flip Flops

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