Wearing Sandals While Driving: Is It Dangerous?

On a hot summer day, stepping into a pair of sandals or flip-flops is a great way to beat the heat. However, getting behind the wheel in unsafe footwear could be putting you — and other passengers — in danger on the road. 

Research has proven that flip-flops and other types of footwear can be extremely hazardous while driving. According to a study conducted by Geico, around 16,000 road accidents occur each year from pedal errors, many which are caused by wearing the wrong footwear behind the wheel. Before you step on the gas, pump the brakes and read up on the potential accidents and outcomes of wearing sandals while driving. 

Sandals Behind The Wheel: Possible Dangers During Wear

Less pedal control: Sandal straps are not always secure, especially the traditional thong style that goes between toes. This can cause difficulties braking or accelerating, since the foot can slide around inside the sandals. In extreme cases, those sandals can come off and slip underneath pedals, jamming the pedal mechanisms and disrupting the driving.

Lack of foot safety: Beyond the worry of healthy arches, sandals offer little to no coverage in an accident. Plus, pushing down on pedals in footwear that lacks support can overwork the muscles, increasing the likelihood of the foot slipping or making dangerous motions while driving.

Potential Accidents Caused by Sandals

Sandals can indirectly cause accidents on the road, due to faulty driving practices, which can include: 

Delayed Reaction Time

If a lifesaving maneuver is needed, like a sudden stop to avoid hitting a road obstacle, sandals can slow down the braking reaction time and create a dangerous scenario.

Unexpected Acceleration or Braking

While timing is an issue, unintended actions can directly affect driving performance and lead to accidents. 

Driving Errors

Improper shoes can cause drivers to misjudge foot placement on the pedals, meaning they can step on the brake and gas at the same time. Not only is this dangerous in motion, but can cause damage to the car.

How to Prevent Car Accidents

The Foot and Ankle Wellness Center estimates that 1.4 million combined accidents and near misses each year. Preventative measures are as easy as knowing how to shop for the right shoes, so explore the best choices before stepping out.

Choose Secure Footwear

These types of shoes have some common features that make them suitable for driving: they provide good grip, comfort, and flexibility, without impeding your movement or interfering with the pedals. Flat shoes with non-slip soles are preferred by many drivers because they offer stable and consistent contact with the pedal surface. These will provide stability, comfort and safety for drivers.

Some shoes that are acceptable for driving include tennis shoes, workout shoes, street sneakers, low heels, boots and any shoe with a thick sole. Loafers, moccasins, and boat shoes are also stylish and comfortable, as these choices usually have a non-marking sole that prevents scuffing of pedals. 

What Kinds of Shoes Are Not Safe For Driving?

Gas, brake and clutch pedals all require a different amount of pressure to operate effectively, so avoid any type of shoe that will cause complications with that process.

Flip-flops, high heels and thick-soled shoes can be both detrimental and uncomfortable to wear while driving. Any footwear that restricts ankle or knee mobility, like over-the-knee boots or heavy work boots, should be left out of the driver’s seat for any journey. To mitigate any potential risk, consider taking an extra pair of sensible driving shoes to wear in transit, or to keep in the car for a quick change before making a car trip.

Can I Wear Sandals While Driving?

While it isn’t illegal to wear flip-flops behind the wheel, this wardrobe choice may not be without consequences. Wearing shoes with thin, looser soles while driving may provide better pedal feel, making it easier to control the amount of force applied to the pedals. However, these types of shoes can pose significant dangers to drivers. Thin soles do not provide sufficient protection for your feet in the event of an accident.

Special orthopedic sandals with sturdy straps can also be acceptable, but only if they can guarantee a stable driving experience for the wearer. Passengers can wear sandals, as long as their position doesn’t impede driver performance. 

Legal Risk: When Footwear is At Fault

In the event of an accident, insurance companies and personal injury lawyers may argue that the driver was at fault due to the choice of impractical footwear. These companies and claims adjusters will look at every detail of an automobile accident timeline. If unsafe footwear is found to be a contributing factor to an accident, as the driver, you may be held liable for the incident.

Get Legal Coverage For Auto Accidents

The Shook & Stone team understands automobile accidents well. With over 75 years of combined experience across major practice areas like workers’ compensation and personal injury, we can help in a variety of legal settings. 

Contact us today for a free consultation regarding a car accident case, and let our experts help settle disputes and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Drive Safely and Stylishly

Ultimately, the type of footwear you choose for driving depends on your personal preferences, driving style and the type of vehicle you’re driving.

Always prioritize safety and comfort over fashion or convenience. Remember, impractical footwear can be a hazard and is best left for off-road adventures, or for a quick change once the destination is reached.