Date 3.29.2023

Is it Illegal to Drive Barefoot in Florida?

Posted By: Coker Law

State Laws Regarding Driving Without Shoes

One of the most Googled questions is “Can I drive barefoot?” It may surprise you to learn that here in Florida, it’s not against the law to drive barefoot. However, just because there is no law against it – doesn’t mean that it’s always a good idea. Driving without proper footwear can be dangerous, so it is important to take extra precautions if you do get behind the wheel while barefoot.


At Coker Law, we represent individuals who have been seriously injured in car accidents. Our firm is dedicated to ensuring that injury victims receive the largest recovery possible and always get the highest degree of care. If you have been involved in an accident in Jacksonville or the surrounding communities, contact our office at (904) 356-6071 to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Florida Law on Driving Barefoot?

The state of Florida does not have a specific statute barring a person from driving barefoot. There is also nothing prohibiting a person from driving in flip-flops or other loose-fitting shoes, however, all of which can be dangerous. Improper footwear can cause you to lose your grip on the pedal and may result in serious injury to the extremity in an accident.

Motorists are strongly encouraged to wear secure footing shoes with proper grip to help avoid preventable accidents and injuries. Driving barefoot can be unsafe and in some cases may be considered reckless. A law enforcement officer can fault you for reckless driving if they feel that you were driving a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety” or the property of others.

What Are the Dangers of Driving Without Shoes?

While driving barefoot may not be illegal, it is far from recommended. A foot without protection can be extremely vulnerable to severe injury in the event of a crash. 

As State Trooper Steve Montiero explained to Click Orlando, a crash can be “rather devastating” if your feet are not protected. He described responding to a serious collision involving his cousin who was driving barefoot at the time. As a result of the impact, the foot “slammed into the accelerator” causing serious injury. The “foot was split between the big toe and the next one.”

In addition to the potential for injury, driving without shoes may not provide enough grip. A foot may slip off the pedal resulting in an accident. It is recommended that people keep a spare set of driving shoes in their vehicle to ensure they always have proper footwear when behind the wheel.

Contact Our Office to Learn More

Please take extra care to make sure your foot doesn’t slip off the accelerator and that you have enough leverage to apply your brakes properly in case of emergencies. If you have any legal questions or have been involved in a Jacksonville car accident, contact our office at (904) 356-6071 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we win. 

If you would like to watch more videos answering some of the most Googled questions about driving, insurance, and your rights after a car accident visit the Coker Law YouTube channel.

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If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, let us help. Contact us by phone or online form to discuss your options or work with our team of trial attorneys. There are no fees unless we win your case.

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