As the temperature has recently soared in the UK with one of the hotest starts to June on record, most of us have ditched our jumpers, scarves and boots for our summer clothes, choosing shorts, t-shirts, and summer dresses. You may be wondering what this has to do with driving? With the change in clothes also comes a change in footwear, with some of us opting for flip flops or sandals.
Whilst it’s not illegal to drive in flip-flops or sandal you should consider if your footwear could put you, your passengers or other road users at risk. Sandals, flip-flops and other summer footwear are unlikely to have a good base and grip, it can be very easy for your foot to slip from the pedal or for you to be unable to apply enough pressure to the pedal if you need to break quickly. For the same reasons it is not advisable to drive barefoot, in slippers or in shoes with very thick or very thin soles. If you are not able to use the pedals correctly you could lose control over the vehicle, or, if you can’t apply enough braking force this could result in an accident.
We suggest keeping a pair of suitable driving shoes in the car that you can quickly change into if your footwear is not suitable. Trainers are an ideal option, slip-on trainers are quick and easy to change into and should give you’re the required grip for drive safely. If you are learning to drive then remember to wear suitable shoes or take a pair with you that you can change into for your driving lesson.
Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that the footwear and clothing that you choose to wear whilst driving must not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner. Should the police stop you and consider that your footwear is inappropriate or may have contributed to an accident, it could result in a fine and/or penalty points. You may be liable for a charge of driving without due care and attention, which carries a £100 on the spot fine and three points on your licence. If you already have points this could mean a ban.