Beware of the consequences if you drive barefoot in Texas. Here’s what experts recommend
Putting on shoes can take too much effort at times, so some people choose to drive barefoot when in a rush.
But is driving barefoot legal in Texas?
Yes. You can dress however you choose as long as you can operate your car safely. In fact, you can drive barefoot legally in all 50 states.
Thompson Law injury lawyers do caution, however, that even while it’s not against the law, driving without shoes might have serious repercussions if you cause an accident.
Drivers could be cited for traffic violations that include but are not limited to:
- Negligent Driving: By driving barefoot, you’re acting in a way that puts other people’s safety in danger.
- Reckless Driving: If it turns out that the crash was partially caused by the driver’s lack of shoes.
- Failure to Exercise Due Care: You did not drive with reasonable care by driving barefoot.
The same warning applies to driving with sandals or flip flops, even though both are legal to drive in.
Experts at Thompson Law said they pose risks because they can easily come off your foot and become lodged beneath a pedal, making it difficult for you to quickly apply the brakes or accelerate.
Motorcycles are the only vehicles in Texas with barefoot driving regulations, since wearing safety footwear is advised by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Motorcycle Operators Manual.
Driving with secure, closed-toe shoes is highly recommended to maintain best possible control and safety overall.
