Is It Okay to Drive Barefoot?
2 Answers
It is best not to drive barefoot. Although there is no explicit prohibition in national laws against driving barefoot, some regional regulations have added provisions prohibiting driving barefoot, in slippers, or in high heels (such as in Zhejiang, Nanjing, and other areas). Below are some driving precautions to note: Before getting in the car, observe the overall condition of the vehicle: check the exterior, whether the tire pressure is sufficient, and whether there are any signs of water or oil leakage under the car. Regularly inspect whether the engine oil, windshield washer fluid, and coolant are at adequate levels. In winter, it is essential to warm up the car; otherwise, the water temperature may not reach the normal operating level, and the lubricating oil will be too viscous, preventing proper lubrication. Accelerating under such conditions would only accelerate wear and tear on the engine and transmission. Use the horn cautiously: Sudden honking may startle pedestrians, especially at intersections where children may be crossing. In such cases, slow down or stop and wait. Additionally, whenever visibility is obstructed—such as at sharp turns with high walls, construction barriers, or on winding mountain roads—reduce speed and honk to prepare for the sudden appearance of pedestrians or other vehicles.
Is it really okay to drive without shoes? I think it's best not to take the risk. When driving barefoot, your feet can easily sweat and slip, especially when pressing the brake or accelerator pedal. If the road is wet or you need to brake suddenly, your foot might slide off the pedal, leading to loss of control. I've driven a short distance a few times forgetting to wear shoes, and it felt particularly unstable. Shoes provide extra grip, helping you firmly control the pedals. Think about emergencies on the highway—a one-second delay can cause a disaster. Wearing shoes is a basic safety habit. In hot weather, bare feet also fatigue faster, affecting reaction time. If you really want to try it, do so at low speeds in an open area to feel the difference, but I recommend always wearing proper shoes to protect yourself and others.
