Drivers are being urged to avoid a potentially dangerous habit as a heatwave hits the UK this week. With temperatures expected to reach 35C from Wednesday, motorists may be tempted to wear casual footwear, but experts warn that driving in flip flops poses significant risks.
Not Illegal but Risky
While wearing flip flops while driving is not illegal, drivers are advised never to do so. If involved in a crash while wearing them, motorists could face fines, penalty points, or even prosecution for careless driving. Flip flops are more likely to slip off or get caught on pedals, compromising control of the vehicle.
A motoring expert at Rev Monkey UK said: "It is not illegal to drive in flip-flops, but drivers still have a legal responsibility to stay in full control of the vehicle. If footwear slips off, gets trapped or affects braking, police could argue that the driver failed to operate the vehicle safely."
Penalties for Offenders
Motorists could face an on-the-spot £100 fine and three penalty points. In more serious cases that go to court, careless driving carries fines of up to £5,000 and as many as nine points on a licence. The Highway Code states that footwear should not prevent drivers from using the controls properly, meaning inappropriate shoes could become an issue after a collision or traffic stop.
Experts recommend avoiding shoes with very soft soles or overly thick soles, as both can reduce pedal control and feedback. Narrow shoes with a firm grip are generally the safest option because they lower the chance of slipping or accidentally pressing two pedals at once.
