In Australia, while there is no specific legislation preventing people from driving in thongs (flip-flops) or barefoot, control and safety come first. The main consideration is that drivers need to be in a position to control their vehicles safely to protect themselves and other road users.
Legal Overview: Footwear Choice
All Australian states’ traffic regulations do not specify what can or cannot be worn, as long as a driver can operate their vehicle safely. Open footwear such as thongs and sandals as well as driving barefoot are fine to do, provided that control of the vehicle’s pedals and other mechanisms are not hindered. No road rules in New South Wales, Victoria, or Queensland explicitly state that certain types of footwear cannot be worn while driving.
How Footwear Becomes a Liability
Though driving in flip-flops is legal, it is a police discretion issue when a driver’s choice of footwear results in unsafe driving. For instance, a flip flop that slips off, gets stuck under a brake pedal, or prevents taking an evasive action during an emergency, may result in a driver being fined for failing to maintain control of a motor vehicle, under ”road rule 297”. In the case of an accident, insurers may refuse to compensate for the loss, or the police may charge negligent driving when the inappropriate footwear was a contributing factor and found during an investigation.
Maintaining Safe Driving Practices
Closed and well-fastened shoes are highly recommended by driving instructors, road safety authorities, and even experienced drivers. Well-fitting shoes minimize the risk of slippage on the pedals and also provide swift and decisive control in emergency situations. The best pedal control, which contributes to the overall safety of a driver and the people on the road, is provided by thin and flexible soles commonly found in sneakers or driving shoes.
Myths and Common Misunderstandings
In Australia, some still tend to think that driving barefoot or in thongs is illegal. Despite this belief, the most recent legal and safety authorities have said this is incorrect. Such myths may stem from the extensive focus controlling and safety that surrounds driving and safety guidelines. While open shoes are not banned, worn and protective shoes are the most sensible option for every driver.
Insurance and Liability
When evaluating an accident and determining liability, an insurer will look at everything and every person that contributed to the situation including shoes. If it is discovered that the driver lost control because and an accident occurred, and they were driving in unsafe shoes, they may incur accident related financial and legal liability. This is also the reason why it is recommended for longer trips and on unfamiliar roads that a driver keep proper driving shoes in the car.
Practical Recommendations
To lessen the risk, a driver should:
- Wear closed-toe shoes that provide a good grip.
- Steer clear of loose shoes that can slide off, or shoes that can get stuck under the pedals.
- Always maintain maximum control at all times, especially in an emergency.
FAQs
Q1: Is driving in thongs or barefoot illegal in Australia?
A1: No, but you must be able to fully control your vehicle at all times.
Q2: Is it possible to fail a driving test just for wearing thongs?
A2: Examiners may ask for shoes that provide safe control. Footwear that is inappropriate may cause a test to be rescheduled.
Q3: What is the best footwear for driving?
A3: Closed, flat shoes with thin soles that provide a strong grip are the safest option when driving.
