OT: Driving Barefoot

[Ash]

I picked up my sister the other day from her college class.
On the way there I slipped off my leather flip flops and drove barefoot.
When my sister got in the car she noticed I had no shoes on and told me that driving barefoot was illegal in Iowa.

I'm 31 years old and have been driving since age 16 and I had never heard that before in my life.
I then asked several friends and my parents if driving barefoot was illegal and they confirmed that it indeed was.

Why is it illegal to drive barefoot?
Is it illegal in your state?

[odinn7]

It's illegal and I'm sure there's a *good* reason for it but I don't know what it is.

[2xSlick]

it's mostly legallook here
I think the only reason it's frowned on is that in the event of a 74 -car pile-up, you would have to crawl out of your car and walk on broken glass...

[Ellie]

I don't know about Arizona but my husband drives wearing his socks all the time.  It is because he is lazy and doesn't plan on getting out of the car.

[Susan]

yep it's illegal. I can imagine why tho, because i've driven barefoot and and it's harder on the feet to hold down and maneuver between the petals, i feel more likely to have an accident without my shoes. Btw it's not a bright thing to do, in my later years i found out that i should always dress as if my car might break down and i could be stranded somewhere. I wouldn't want to be in the snow without a coat, the rain without a hood or umbrella and anywhere without my shoes.

[DK]

There is proof online it IS LEGAL. You can look at www.barefooters.org, www.pedolgroup.com, and you can do a search on www.urbandlegends.com.
You can also check with AAA.

MTV did a story on this last year. They followed up, with the same result. NO LAWS in ANY state.

Driving barefoot is MUCH safer than with flip flops, backless shoes, and high heels.

Please write back & let us know what you find.

[Ed]

I looked on AAA website:
http://www.aaamidatlantic.com/automotive/MotorLaws/search_submit.asp

In my book its also because you can crush a toe if you slam on the breaks (it happened to me once)
Ed

[Chris]

Although it's possible to get a better feel for the clutch pedal bearfoot or wearing socks, I guess a firmer foot on the brake pedal saves lives.

[Ed]

Also, I am surprised at how many states DO allow it.
Ed

[Susan]