FLIPPING OUT
Is it illegal to drive in flip flops, sliders or sandals? Plus how much can I be fined for wearing the wrong footwear?
Your crocs could be a careless footwear mistake while driving
FOR many sliders and flip flops have become a popular choice of footwear but they're not the safest choice for driving.
But is it illegal to drive in such footwear and could you face a hefty fine for doing so? Here's everything you need to know.
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Is it illegal to drive in flip flops or sliders?
While driving in flip flops or sliders isn't illegal in itself, wearing them could lead to a careless driving charge if they impede your ability to drive safely.
Motoring experts from Quotezone claim that there is a lot of debate and uncertainty around whether driving barefoot is illegal, but there is no law against it, nor is there for wearing open-toe flat shoes.
However, if a driver's choice of footwear results in erratic driving, they could be pulled over and charged for driving without due care and attention.
The Driving Standards Agency has also stressed the importance of wearing sturdy footwear behind the wheel.
They said: "Suitable shoes are particularly important behind the wheel.
"We would not recommend driving barefoot because you don’t have the same braking force with bare feet as you do with shoes on.”
According to the RAC, drivers should use shoes with a sole no thicker than 10mm and that can provide enough grip to stop their foot from slipping off the pedals.
They should not be too heavy, not limit ankle movement and be narrow enough to avoid accidentally depressing two pedals at one.
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Can I be fined for driving in flip flops or sliders?
In 2023, drivers were warned that their choice of footwear could land them a hefty fine.
If you are stopped by police while driving in a potentially dangerous manner or your footwear is a reason for an accident, you could be charged with driving without due care and attention (careless driving).
This offence carries a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points on your licence, and, if it goes to court, the maximum penalty could rise to as high as a £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and potentially a driving ban.
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What does the Highway Code suggest about wearing flip flops or sliders whilst driving?
Although there are no specific laws concerning footwear whilst driving, rule 97 of the Highway Code does state that the clothing and footwear you choose to wear whilst driving should not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner.
Wearing flip-flops or sliders could be seen as an infringement of this rule, as they could slip off, become wedged under pedals or prevent you from pressing the pedals with enough force to brake quickly, which could cause you to drive erratically or even lead to a collision.
Ben Pitcher, Experts points out:
“Although flip-flops appear ideal for summer, they can slip off, making it harder to control the pedals effectively.
"This is dangerous and violates Rule 97 of the Highway Code.
"This is called ‘driving without due care and attention’ and will result in an immediate £100 fine and three penalty points on your license.
"If taken to court, the penalties can be even more severe, reaching up to £5,000, nine penalty points, and a potential driving ban.
“While driving, wear secure and appropriate shoes, such as sneakers or closed-toe shoes, to ensure you have proper control of the pedals. If you prefer wearing sandals or flip-flops in the summer, keep a pair of suitable shoes in your car to switch into while driving.”