There is no specific law in New Jersey that bans driving barefoot. You can legally drive without shoes. However, while it’s not illegal, it’s important to remember that driving barefoot can be dangerous.
Without the right footwear, your feet may not have the proper grip on the pedals, making it more difficult to control the vehicle.
Potential Safety Concerns When Driving Barefoot
Driving barefoot can affect your ability to properly control your car, especially in an emergency situation. Shoes help provide better traction and control when pressing the accelerator, brake, or clutch pedals.
Without shoes, your feet might slip or become more fatigued during long drives. This could lead to accidents, which could cause harm to you or others on the road.
Can You Get a Ticket for Driving Barefoot?
Although driving barefoot is not illegal in New Jersey, you could get a ticket if it is found that your driving was unsafe. If a police officer believes that your lack of proper footwear led to dangerous driving or an accident, they could charge you with reckless driving or distracted driving.
In such cases, it’s not the act of driving barefoot that’s illegal, but the dangerous driving behavior associated with it.
What Are the Best Shoes for Driving?
If you want to ensure your safety while driving, it’s a good idea to wear shoes that offer comfort, support, and good grip. Driving with sandals, sneakers, or flats is a safer option compared to flip-flops or high heels, which may get caught on the pedals or limit movement.
While driving barefoot in New Jersey is not illegal, it’s not the best practice for your safety. If your barefoot driving leads to unsafe conditions or an accident, you could be penalized for reckless driving. Always consider wearing appropriate footwear to ensure you have full control over your vehicle and avoid accidents.
