How driving in flip-flops can result in a £5,000 fine, NINE penalty points and a road ban

TO many flip-flops and flip-flops have become a popular footwear choice, but they are not the safest choice for driving.

But is it illegal to drive with these types of shoes and could you face a hefty fine for doing so? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is it illegal to drive in flip-flops or sliders?

While driving in flip-flops or flip-flops is not illegal in and of itself, wearing them can result in a careless driving charge if they impede your ability to drive safely.

Motorsport experts from Quotation zone state that there is a lot of debate and uncertainty about whether driving barefoot is illegal, but there is no law against it, nor is there a ban on wearing open-toed flat shoes.

However, if a driver’s choice of footwear results in erratic driving, he or she may be stopped and charged for driving without due care and attention.

The Driving Standards Agency has also emphasized the importance of wearing sturdy footwear while driving.

They said: “Appropriate footwear is particularly important when driving.

“We don’t recommend driving barefoot because you don’t have the same braking force barefoot as you do with shoes.”

According to the RAC, drivers must wear shoes with soles no larger than 10mm and which provide enough grip to prevent the foot from slipping off the pedals.

They should not be too heavy, not limit ankle movement, and be narrow enough to prevent accidental pressing of two pedals at the same time.

Can I be fined for driving in flip-flops or sliders?

In 2023, drivers were warned that their choice of footwear could result in heavy fines.

If you are stopped by the police while driving in a potentially dangerous manner or if your footwear is the reason for an accident, you could be charged with driving without due care and attention (careless driving).

This offense carries an immediate £100 fine and three penalty points on your driving license and if it goes to court the maximum penalty could be 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 flip-flops while driving?

Although there are no specific laws regarding footwear while driving, rule 97 of the Highway Code states that the clothing and footwear you choose to wear while driving must not prevent you from using the controls correctly.

Wearing flip-flops or flip-flops may be seen as a violation of this rule, as they may slip, get caught under the pedals, or prevent you from pressing the pedals hard enough to brake quickly, which may cause you to drive erratically. or even slip. for a collision.

Ben Pitcher, experts points out:
“Although flip-flops seem ideal for summer, they can slip, making it difficult 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 driving licence.

“If taken to court, the penalties could be even more severe, up to £5,000, nine penalty points and a potential driving ban.

“When driving, wear safe and appropriate footwear, such as sneakers or closed-toe shoes, to ensure proper control of the pedals. If you prefer to wear sandals or flip-flops in the summer, keep a pair of suitable shoes in the car to change into while driving.”