Why is driving barefoot illegal?

Answer 1

In spite of persistent myths, there are NO laws against driving barefoot. Unfortunately, this myth is so common that even some cops believe it... but everyone who believes this please see source and stop spreading this falsity. (Josh, if you don't believe the sources, why don't you come up with one that backs up your claim that driving barefoot is against the law? I'd love to see you try, I've challenged a lot of people but no one has been able to find a source yet....... hm, maybe 'cause there aren't any?)

Some cops are convinced it's unsafe and even though they know it's not illegal may try to write you up for unsafe or reckless driving, however please see the second and third link in the source, for two sites (one from the Michigan PD, one from an Australian newspaper) making it clear that driving barefoot is no more unsafe than many types of footwear that are regularly worn and could even be considered safer than many kinds of shoes.

About some of the other arguments made in this thread: dry bare feet are not likely to slip; certainly not more than leather-soled shoes. In case of an accident, sturdy boots would probably provide protection but a pair of flipflops or other open sandals won't make any bit of difference. Also, I'm sure there are less injuries from flying glass in winter when everyone's bundled up in several layers of clothing compared to summer when people are driving (and passengers are riding) in shorts and haltertop, yet there's no law requiring long sleeves and pants year-round.

Answer 2

As others stated, barefoot driving is legal in most countries (state where you live for more precise information). Why does your friends mom get a ticket for this even though it's not illegal? And while there is no problem with driving barefoot, what could be very dangerous would be to have shoes or other items on the floor, where they could get under the pedals. Make sure to stow them away safely.

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Why is driving barefoot illegal?

Answer 4

For the best answers, search on this site https://shorturl.im/pPEnw

Because the idea is if barefoot your foot can slip off the pedal[s] where-as if you're wearing shoes with soles and a hell, your foot maintains a better grip. That's the reasoning, not that I agree with it - I've driven barefoot before, not often though because I can do without the fine lol.

Answer 5

In California it used to be illegal, but back in the hippie days so many people were driving barefoot and the authorities figure out it was not dangerous, they repealed the law.

It is up to state and local jurisdiction.

Peace

Jim

.

Answer 6

I believe it has something to operating a vehicle safely. They found that driving with shoes allows one to drive longer and safer. Some places there is actually no law against it.

Myself, I prefer driving barefoot because I can feel the amount of pressure I am putting on the pedals. I just keep my shoes tucked under the seat so if I ever get pulled over.

Answer 7

Where are you? It's not illegal anywhere in the United States of America.

Answer 8

I have never heard of a law where driving barefoot was deemed illegal, but it does seem to be plausible, especially for motorcyclists.

Driving barefoot could prevent the driver from maintaining a proper amount of pressure on the brake pedal for an extended period of time.

Answer 9

If you are in an accident, the shoes provide you with some safety. Let alone after an accident, glass will be around, again shoes for safety. Plus a foot can become sweaty, and slip off the brake or gas pedal, in turn causing an accident.

I know Ohio has this law and as far as I know its the same in all states.

Answer 10

Because your foot isn't protected. So if something happens to cause it harm, then that will adversely affect your driving. It doesn't have to be an accident that leads to that. It can just be the pedal pushing against your bare foot that causes you pain.