According to Bankrate, drivers in some states in the United States may face a fine if they drive barefoot and cause an accident. An article published in February 2025 in USA Today says there are drivers who claim to have better control of the gas and brake pedals when driving without any shoes on. According to AAA Senior Automotive Manager David Bennett, driving without proper footwear can result in minor slip-ups when stepping on the pedals, which can lead to a car accident.
When a car accident occurs and the at-fault driver is barefoot, the absence of footwear cannot be attributed to negligence or intentional misconduct. If the accident resulted from the driver losing control of the vehicle while manipulating the pedals with bare feet or sustaining a foot injury, their loss of control may be considered fault for the accident.
This article will go over the considerations you should make before driving barefoot.
Understanding the Legal Aspect of Barefoot Driving
Is it illegal to drive barefoot? In most states, driving barefoot is acceptable. Keep in mind that law enforcement may cite you for driving unsafely if they believe your barefoot driving will cause an accident.
Some states have rules and regulations on wearing prescribed footwear while driving. Sandals and Gore-Tex are made with slippery materials and can cause interference with the driving pedals.
Stay updated about your local news so you can remain informed and maintain safety on the road. You can drive barefoot, but you have the vehicle under your control at all times.
Common Misconceptions About Driving Without Shoes
In many states, it is commonly believed that driving without shoes on is deemed illegal. The statement is inaccurate since most states permit drivers to drive barefoot.
Another common myth is that driving barefoot can lead to a police or other law enforcement authority stop. This assumption is false. As long as your driving is safe and in accordance with the traffic laws, you are unlikely to be stopped for driving without wearing any kind of footwear.
Some people mistakenly believe that driving barefoot voids your insurance coverage. The reality is that you can keep your insurance coverage as long as you drive responsibly.
The Safety Implications of Driving Barefoot
Regardless of whether it is legal to drive barefoot, there are some things to keep in mind.
Driving barefoot can reduce your grip on the pedals, which can be dangerous in wet conditions. In the event of a crash, you could suffer additional injuries to your feet from foreign objects.
For some people, they feel more connected with the car and more aware of their surroundings if driving barefoot. Only drive barefoot if you are confident in your ability to maintain control of the vehicle.
State-Specific Laws and Regulations
Driving barefoot is generally permissible under state laws and can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction. State laws on driving vary. Some states do not have laws concerning the practice of driving barefoot. Meanwhile, other states may offer warnings based on concerns for safety.
In states like California and Texas, you would not be detained for driving barefoot. However, you could be cited in a state like New Jersey if an officer believes that your ability to operate a vehicle safely is affected by your barefoot driving.
Familiarize yourself with local regulations to stay updated and avoid dealing with unnecessary legal consequences.
Best Practices for Safe Driving Regardless of Footwear
Regardless of your footwear preference, always drive in the safest mode possible.
Choose shoes that fit perfectly and have excellent traction. Avoid putting on flip-flops or heels since they are not designed for driving and could easily come off or hinder the driver’s control.
Refrain from blocking the pedals of the car, including floor mats. Keep a suitable distance from the pedals from the seated position to give you the smoothest control of the vehicle.
Put away all electronic devices to stop distractions. Constantly glance at the rear and side mirrors. Don’t forget to regularly check on your blind spots. Adjust the seat belt to keep you fastened in your seat.
Maintain your full concentration when on the road. Strictly following these practices promotes responsible driving and guarantees your safety on the road, regardless of what footwear you wear.
