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Don’t let this little-known driving rule spoil your summer plans
Britain is currently experiencing a heatwave, making today (26 June) one of the warmest days of the year. With summer in full swing, it’s no surprise that many of us are opting for lighter, more comfortable clothing, including flip-flops.
However, while switching to breezier footwear may seem harmless, there’s one crucial thing you shouldn’t be too relaxed about.
Authorities are warning that driving in flip-flops could leave you with a hefty fine this summer. According to the law, driving in footwear that ‘prevents you from properly using the controls in the vehicle’ can result in a £5,000 penalty.
If a police officer stops you and determines your footwear is inappropriate, you could be charged with a ‘Driving Without Due Care and Attention’ offense. This means you allowed your driving standard to drop below what is expected of a competent and careful driver.
This offense carries a fixed fine of £100 and adds three penalty points to your driving license. However, the RAC notes that the maximum penalty is nine points and a £5,000 fine. Worst case scenario, you could be disqualified from driving altogether.
The RAC advises that your driving shoes should:
Under Rule 97 of the Highway Code, drivers are required to wear ‘footwear and clothing which does not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner’.
Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy and Research, told The Sun Motors: “Before setting off, you should ensure that your clothing and footwear allows you to use the controls properly. If flip-flops impede this, you could be prosecuted under Highway Code Rule 97.
Careless driving is mostly judged on its impact on other road users. If you’re seen swerving or braking erratically and it’s determined that your inadequate footwear caused it, you could face legal action. In the unfortunate event of an accident, this could even lead to a higher fine or longer driving ban.
Selim Cavanagh, Chief Executive at ingenie, commented: “It’s reassuring that nearly a third of drivers consider driving in flip-flops illegal because it’s extremely dangerous. Flip-flops can slip off, slide under the pedals, or get caught between your feet and the pedals. Wet feet can affect your ability to brake properly if needed.
Beyond the rules, driving in flip-flops can create a hazardous environment, putting you, your passengers, and other road users at risk.
Adam Antoszkiw, solicitor advocate at law firm Gray and Co, warned: “Wearing flip-flops isn’t an offense in itself, but it’s probably not a wise choice. In the event of an accident, it would be easier to argue that your flip-flops impaired your driving, leading to charges like driving without due care and attention or not having control of the vehicle.
These are minor offenses, but if something serious happens, you may not be able to claim you did everything possible to prevent the incident. You might not be charged immediately, but the standard of driving required can easily be challenged in court if you’re wearing flip-flops.
