Is it allowed to drive barefoot?
2 Answers
Driving barefoot is not permitted. According to Article 90 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law,' while driving, behaviors that hinder safe driving, such as wearing slippers, high heels with heels over 4 cm, driving barefoot, or holding a phone for calls, are prohibited. Drivers violating these regulations will be penalized with demerit points and corresponding fines. In the event of a minor traffic accident, even if the barefoot driver is not at fault, they will still face penalties. In general traffic accidents, the barefoot driver will bear primary or full responsibility. Driving barefoot is a controversial topic. Although not as severe as drunk driving, it can still be classified as behavior that endangers public driving safety. Traffic police warn that prolonged barefoot driving can lead to foot fatigue, affecting the foot's sensitivity and feedback strength, which may result in misoperation. Additionally, barefoot driving can cause sweating, reducing friction with the brake pedal and increasing the risk of slipping or delayed braking. Moreover, the dispersed force from toes during emergency braking can lead to insufficient braking force, potentially causing major public traffic accidents. For the safety of yourself and others, please adhere to traffic regulations.
I have always been interested in topics related to driving safety, including driving barefoot. From a legal perspective, in most regions around the world, including China, there are no direct laws prohibiting barefoot driving. It is not considered illegal. However, the issue lies in the significant safety hazards: when pressing the pedals barefoot, the feet are prone to slipping or losing grip, especially during critical operations like braking and accelerating, which can lead to delayed reactions and increased risk of accidents. The situation worsens when feet are sweaty or the weather is wet. In contrast, wearing shoes provides better friction and stability, helping maintain precise control of the vehicle. For driving safety, it is best to develop the habit of wearing comfortable flat shoes when getting into the car to avoid unnecessary risks. Driving is not just about skill; it also involves protective awareness in every detail.
