Is it acceptable to drive shirtless?
2 Answers
Driving shirtless is allowed. It is not considered a traffic violation and will not result in penalty points, but it does not conform to civilized driving norms. There are no unified regulations regarding other penalties for driving shirtless, and specific rules depend on local regulations. Generally, if spotted by traffic police, you may be reminded or given a verbal warning. Civilized driving should include: Strictly adhering to road traffic safety laws and regulations, such as not running red lights, using turn signals when changing lanes, switching between high and low beams during nighttime driving, avoiding overtaking from the right side (especially at high speeds), and not waiting at red lights in the right-turn lane when going straight. Examples of improper driving behavior: Occupying lanes improperly and overtaking from the right are common occurrences everywhere. Occupying lanes does not only refer to encroaching on non-motorized lanes but also includes fast/slow lanes, bus lanes, and emergency lanes. These behaviors often lead to rear-end collisions and other traffic accidents.
Having driven for over a decade, I've seen many drivers going shirtless behind the wheel, which doesn't seem quite appropriate. Legally speaking, traffic regulations don't explicitly prohibit shirtless driving, but it might violate public order—in some cities, it's considered uncivilized behavior, and police may issue warnings or fines. From a safety perspective, without clothing protection, seatbelt friction could cause skin injuries in case of an accident, and summer sun exposure might lead to sunburn or heatstroke. I recommend keeping a shirt on, preferably opting for breathable T-shirts or tank tops, and using air conditioning to regulate temperature. Don't prioritize temporary comfort over risks—safety comes first, and civilized driving matters too. It's best to check local regulations to avoid major consequences for minor gains. In short, developing good habits can save a lot of trouble, especially during long-distance drives where comfort and safety go hand in hand.
