London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – There is a lot of uncertainty regarding whether it is not legal to drive barefoot in the UK. Many people fear that they will break the law and may have to face legal consequences for it. However, all these are misconceptions as it is not illegal to drive without wearing shoes. The same rule applies to flip-flops. You can drive barefoot or while wearing a flip-flop, but only if you can operate the car safely. If you are putting yourself or the trespassers in danger, it will be illegal. According to the Driving Standards Agency, one must wear suitable shoes that can cater to behind-the-wheel needs.
Is It Illegal To Drive Barefoot In The UK?
It is not illegal to drive barefoot in the UK. Even though it is a popular myth but none is true. However, one must be careful while they drive bare feet. You need to keep yourself from an accident. When you drive, taking care of the trespassers becomes your duty. If you are wearing those shoes that don’t allow you to operate things behind the wheel, you will be in trouble. If you are caught driving unsafely, or you cause an accident, chances are that you end up with a major fine.
Why Driving Barefoot Can Be Dangerous?
The leading authorities in the UK highlight road safety in many ways. One of their biggest concerns is that it is dangerous to drive bare feet. According to Rule 97 of the Highway Code, drivers should wear clothes and clothing that help them drive safely. This law covers all the details of what you should wear and why.
When you are wearing the correct shoes will help you gain control of your car in the right way. As you try to drive bare feet you are likely to break this rule. Suppose your feet are wet as you have come out of the beach. When you drive barefoot it will likely cause an accident.
If this isn’t enough the Driver and Vehicle Standard agency has also suggested something important. You must wear sensible shoes as you drive towards your destination. They also recommend that driving barefoot is simply not worth it. If you are not able to control the brakes it will be a huge risk for the people involved.
What Are The Consequences Of Driving Barefoot?
If you are driving barefoot, it is unlikely that anyone will stop you. After all, it is difficult for anyone to know what you are wearing. However, if the police notice you losing control over the brakes, they will stop right away. Similarly, if you are caught in an accident everyone will notice you instantly. When you will be investigated for driving bare feet, it will cause more trouble. For this, you can be charged and will have to pay heavy fines.
There is no doubt that careless driving has bad consequences. You need to follow a certain standard to become a competent driver. If you are not driving properly and the reason is bare feet, you will be charged £100 on-the-spot fine. Moreover, there will be three points on your driving license that explain the same situation. In any situation, if your case goes to court you will have to pay a hefty £5,000 fine. It will give you nine points on your license. If things get worse it can lead to a potential driving ban.
Is It Illegal To Drive in Flop Flops?
Some people believe that is easy to drive while wearing a flip-flop. You are not allowed to drive bare feet or while wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops will get you into an unfortunate accident or situation. It becomes difficult to control the components of the car. When you lift your feet on and off the pedal, the sole will lift to a much higher level. As you bend downwards you can get caught under the pedal. This can be very dangerous and you will drive carelessly. It may result in an accident as you will be able to stop the car at the right time.
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What Kind Of Shoes You Must Wear While Driving?
As we have already discussed that it is difficult to drive in bare feet, socks, and flip-flops. In the same way, high heels aren’t a suitable choice either. Now the question is, what is ideal for driving? According to RAC the best shoes for driving must have a dependable sole. It shouldn’t be very thick or thick either.