Brits accidentally breaking a little-known driving rule are ‘more at risk’ of having accident if they have an electric vehicle (EV), a motoring expert has warned
Brits overlooking a strict Highway Code rule could find themselves in hot water — especially those driving electric vehicles (EVs).
With the UK bracing for a fourth intense heatwave with 32C temperatures, many motorists will be opting for comfortable footwear including Birkenstocks, Crocs, flip-flops and sliders. While these popular warm-weather choices keep our feet cool, they can pose hidden dangers when worn behind the wheel.
According to a 2013 study by Sheila’s Wheels, up to an estimated 1.4 million accidents and near misses on UK roads could be avoided simply by opting for safer driving shoes. While backless footwear is a key concern, even some seemingly practical options such as wellies — often preferred by campers and festival-goers — can create issues for safe driving due to their bulky fit.
Many drivers may not realise the additional associated risks faced by those driving EVs. Co-founder of Vehicle Mats UK, Chris Astley, underscores these dangers, especially as EVs become more common on Britain’s roads.
“We see it every summer: drivers in backless shoes, like flipflops, mules, and sliders,” he said in a statement sent to the Mirror. “While they might be ideal for hot weather comfort, these kinds of shoes can slip off, get caught under pedals, or simply not give you enough grip to operate your car’s pedals safely. And if your feet are wet, whether it’s from a dip in the sea or sweating in the heat, you’re more at risk.”
When it comes to driving an EV, the expert warns this advice is even more important – as electric cars tend to have ‘significantly more torque’ than their traditional petrol or diesel counterparts, meaning they respond more sharply to pedal movement. “This makes precise foot control crucial, and something as innocuous as a wet or unsuitable shoe could make all the difference in an emergency,” Chris added.
So for EV drivers, the need for pedal control is even greater. Lost grip, a shoe that slips, or a foot clumsily encumbered by inappropriate footwear could mean the difference between a close call and a crash.
Legally, there is no explicit ban on driving in flip-flops, sliders, or driving barefoot in the UK. However, Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers must ensure their ‘footwear do[es] not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner’.
If an accident occurs and it emerges that inappropriate footwear played a role, drivers can face prosecution for driving without due care and attention under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. The penalties can vary dramatically — at the lower end of the scale, a £100 fine and three points on your licence, but this can rise to a £5,000 fine, up to nine points, or even disqualification if the court deems the offence serious — so motorists would be wise to heed the expert’s advice and choose their footwear carefully over the coming months.
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The RAC’s guidance for suitable driving shoes is clear. The best driving shoes have a sole no thicker than 10mm, but not so thin or soft as to compromise safety. They need enough grip to prevent your foot from slipping off the pedals, must not be heavy, should not restrict ankle movement, and be narrow enough to avoid accidentally pressing two pedals at the same time.
As temperatures soar and we experience more frequent heatwaves, drivers are urged to keep these simple warnings in mind to stay on the right side of the law — and out of harm’s way.
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