When talking about safe driving and misdemeanors, there are several questions that arise. The Highway Code is extensive and in this sense it is common to believe what you hear around, even because there are many laws.
But does driving in flip-flops or bareback give a fine?
Is it prohibited to drive in flip-flops or bareback?
No, it is not forbidden to drive in flip-flops or bareback. These are urban myths that every summer are heard and repeated. In fact, to demystify them, the GNR created, in the summer of 2020, a campaign on its Facebook page that clarified these issues. You can see the publications here here.
There is no indication in the Highway Code about not being able to drive in flip-flops or bareback. However, it matters that used footwear and clothing (or lack thereof) are not an obstacle to safe driving.
In this regard, what is mentioned in the road codein paragraph 2 of article 11 is that...
- Every vehicle or animal that circulates on public roads must have a driver, except for the exceptions provided for in this Code.
- Drivers must, while driving, refrain from performing any acts that may jeopardize the exercise of driving safely.
- The driver of a vehicle must not endanger vulnerable users.
- Whoever violates the provisions of the previous numbers is sanctioned with a fine of (euro) 60 to (euro) 300.
Now that you know that driving in flip-flops or bareback doesn't give you a fine, you need to consider your safety. Certain flip-flops have thick and too wide soles that can remove the ability to conveniently operate the vehicle's pedals, leading, for example, to the simultaneous stepping of two pedals. Sometimes, it's the shoes themselves that get stuck on the accelerator, not allowing the driver to brake. When these situations happen, road safety is at risk.
If you drive bareback, don't forget something very important: your seat belt — if you don't, you can effectively be fined regardless of whether you are fully clothed or not. However, if you are driving on a torso and have to brake more suddenly or even in an accident, the risk of injury is greater, as the belt can injure the torso, as it is in direct contact with the skin.
It is therefore recommended that shoes are comfortable and suitable for driving, whether they are shoes, boots or flip-flops.
Via ACP
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