Just stooped down the street to buy a bottle of milk and haven’t put on your shoes yet? Or just getting back in the car after a trip to the beach, no shoes on?
- Driving barefoot or without shoes is legal in Australia
- Driving barefoot may not be safe
- If you crash without shoes on, you could be in trouble
Driving without shoes is completely legal. But it’s also potentially dangerous and can get you into trouble if you’re involved in an accident.
In some jurisdictions, you can be charged with negligent driving if your lack of shoes could have contributed to an accident.
Likewise, if you are wearing shoes or flip-flops, take them off while driving and they disrupt your ability to control the vehicle (such as getting caught under the brake pedal or causing your foot to trip). slip), you may be charged with negligent driving. , or not operating the vehicle properly, or even driving without care.
You can drive barefoot. That’s okay, as long as you can maintain proper control of your vehicle, and as long as there’s nothing in the legroom that interferes with your ability to do so.
But it’s also important to note that your footwear should be appropriate for the job you’re doing. For example, driving barefoot may be safer than wearing high heels, platform heels, heavy work boots with steel toes, or ballet shoes.
And also pay attention to the car, and if it has floor mats in the driver’s legroom. There have been countless cases of motorists being involved in accidents because their floor mats moved while they were driving – and, not to encourage barefoot driving, but you could end up pulling the panels with your toes. It’s easier to re-carpet if it slips than to use the edge of breeches or sneakers.
The bottom line is, it’s the same as when you access RSL; You need to wear suitable footwear. It’s a matter of safety – not only your own but the safety of other road users.
Not intended as legal advice. Check with the relevant road authority in your state or territory.
