Long drives and summer trips sound interesting, but for some drivers, a scorching summers day may result in them removing theirs shoes and driving barefoot. A lot of people mention that this gives them better driving control on the pedals as compared to wearing bulky shoes or flip-flops. Even though this may sound fair, many safety experts disagree.
AAA Senior Automotive Manager David Bennett told USA TODAY that even though driving barefoot might feel more comfortable, it can increase the likelihood of accidents in certain situations. He also highlighted that drivers should understand the traffic laws in the states they’re traveling through.
Is It Legal to Drive Barefoot?
In all 50 states of the United States, driving barefoot is legal. In Missouri, patrol officials have made it known that in certain cases where the driver is wearing heels or sandals, it is actually safer to drive barefoot. Missouri Highway Patrol Capt. Scott White confirmed that there are no laws prohibiting it.
However, in Alabama there is one exception. Motorcyclists are required wear shoes while operating their vehicles. This is a law that is in place to ensure the safety of the rider as well as protection against any sand or debris.
Why Barefoot Driving Can Be Risky
Even though there is no law against it, Bennett strongly advises drives against the use of no shoes while driving. Driving without shoes increases the risk of your foot accidently slipping off the pedal.
Without shoes, the pressure you apply to the brake or accelerator may be uneven. You could also injure a toe if your foot gets caught or jammed while pressing a pedal.
Motorcyclists face additional hazards. Riding your motorcycle without shoes, makes your feet more prone to injuries from rocks and stones.
Bennett makes his advice clear, and that is to wear closed shoes when driving rather than flip flops. The Northwest Driving School in Las Vegas has also agreed with this statement, noting that thin sandals can become lodged under a pedal.
Driving Shirtless: Legal but Potentially Problematic
The other awkward habit, is drivers driving shirtless. According to ConsumerShield, a legal information site, there are no state laws that specifically forbid driving without a shirt. However, it is dependent on local rules and regulations. Therefore, a driver could still face legal action for driving shirtless in terms of public indecency. Even though it is unlikely, it’s important to aware and mindful of possible situations.
Cabin Lights While Driving: Legal but Distracting
There are many people who are now parents, that would probably remember being told as kids, that it is against the law to drive with the car interior light on.
In reality, Policygenius, an insurance comparison site, confirms that it’s legal in every state. However, it’s not recommended at night, as the glare inside the car can make it difficult for the driver to see the road and spot hazards in time.
Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck
It all depends on the state in you’re in whether you’re legally allowed to ride in the back of a pickup truck. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, there are 21 states that allow this with no restrictions while other states allow this with certain restrictions.
Even though it is legal in some states, Bennett still states that is unsafe. Having passengers at the back of a truck while its moving is dangerous, as these people are exposed to stones, debris and accidents. When vehicles are moving a fast speeds, the risk of injury or death is increased.
Safety First: Staying Focused on the Road
Bennett highlights an important rule, that comfort should never be above safety. Ensure that you are properly dressed and following all the rules of the road while you are driving.