Drivers risk a £5,000 fine in the UK heatwave – for making a glaring footwear error . Motorists opting to ditch traditional footwear for flip-flops in the summer heatwave have been warned by car experts. Ben Raffell, automotive expert at car valuation group BigWantsYourCar.com, said: “If your feet become uncomfortable while driving, it can be tempting to take your shoes off, especially during hot weather. However, driving in just socks isn’t necessarily the safest option. “Socks can reduce grip on the pedals and make it
easier for your foot to slip when braking or accelerating. Drivers need to be able to operate all of the vehicle’s controls safely and comfortably at all times, so secure footwear is generally the better choice.” READ MORE UK government told to lower social media ban age from 16 to new threshold Mr Raffell said: “Footwear tends to become a bigger issue during the summer months when people are more likely to wear flip-flops, sliders, sandals or even drive barefoot after a trip to the
beach. “These types of footwear can move around unexpectedly, become lodged under pedals or affect how much pressure a driver can apply.” Mr Raffell explained: “While there is no specific law banning flip-flops, sandals, socks or barefoot driving, motorists can still face penalties if police believe their footwear prevented them from maintaining proper control of the vehicle. “If inappropriate footwear contributes to careless driving, motorists could face a fine, penalty points and, in more serious cases, fines of up to £5,000. “If an accident occurs
and footwear is found to have played a role, the consequences could be even more severe.” He shared some thoughts on what type of footwear is the best option. The expert said: “The safest option is always to wear flat, secure shoes with good grip whenever you’re behind the wheel. It might seem like a small detail, but appropriate footwear can make a real difference in an emergency situation.”
UK heatwave, driving footwear, flip-flops fine, penalty points, £5,000 fine, road safety, barefoot driving, socks on pedals
So you can’t even drive in sandals now? Sounds made up.
I kinda get it with socks slipping, but £5,000 seems like they’re doing the most. Half the UK drives however they want in heat anyway, like everyone forgets brakes exist.
Wait so there’s no law against flip flops but still fines and points?? That’s confusing. I saw someone say barefoot is totally illegal if you’re stopped which… maybe not? Either way if your feet slip you probably just shouldn’t be driving, period.
My cousin got a ticket for driving in flip flops like last summer, so I’m not shocked. People keep acting like it’s fine to take your shoes off when it’s hot, but then they’re surprised when the pedal feels weird. Also I don’t understand how police even know what you were wearing unless you mention it? Seems like one more way to scare drivers.