How driving in flip flops could land you a £5,000 fine, NINE penalty points and a road ban

For many, sliders and flip flops have become popular footwear choices.

But is it illegal to drive with these shoes on, and could you face a hefty fine for doing so? Here you will find everything you need to know.

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Is it illegal to ride in flip flops or sliders?

While riding in flip-flops or sliders is not in itself illegal, wearing these flip-flops could result in a negligence charge if they interfere with your ability to ride safely.

Quotezone.co.uk car experts claim that there is much debate and uncertainty as to whether driving barefoot is illegal, but there is no law against it and there is no law against wearing flip flops or flip flops.

However, if footwear choice, or lack of such footwear, causes the driver to drive erratically, he may be stopped and charged with lack of care and attention while driving.

The Driving Standards Agency has also stressed the importance of wearing sturdy footwear when driving.

They said: “Especially at the wheel, the right shoes are important.”

“We don’t recommend riding barefoot, as bare feet don’t have the same stopping power as shoes.”

According to the RAC, riders should wear shoes that have soles no thicker than 10mm and that provide enough support to keep their feet from slipping off the pedals.

They shouldn’t be too heavy, shouldn’t restrict ankle movement, and be narrow enough to avoid accidentally hitting two pedals at the same time.

Can I be fined for riding in flip flops or sliders?

In 2023, motorists were warned that their choice of footwear could land them a hefty fine.

If you are stopped by the police while driving a potentially dangerous vehicle, or if your footwear is a cause of an accident, you could be charged with driving without due care and attention (reckless driving).

This offense carries a fine of £100 on the spot and three penalty points on your driving licence. If it goes to court, the maximum penalty can be up to £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and possibly a driving ban.

What do the road traffic regulations recommend for wearing flip-flops or sliders when driving a car?

Although there are no specific regulations for wearing shoes when driving, Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that the clothing and footwear you wear while driving must not prevent you from operating the controls properly.

Wearing flip flops or sliders could be considered a violation of this rule as they could slip off, get caught under the pedals, or prevent you from pedaling with enough force to brake quickly, which could result in that you drive irregularly or even lead to a collision.