The short answer is no—Maryland does not have a law that makes it illegal to drive barefoot. You won’t be pulled over or fined simply for not wearing shoes while driving. However, the absence of a specific law doesn’t mean it’s always a smart or risk-free decision.
Why Some People Drive Barefoot
For many, driving barefoot feels more natural and offers better sensitivity on the pedals. Others do it out of habit, comfort, or convenience—like after a day at the beach or to avoid sweaty shoes in the summer.
Still, it’s important to understand the safety and legal risks that come with this choice.
Safety Risks of Driving Barefoot
Even though it may feel more comfortable, driving without shoes can increase your risk of losing control of the vehicle. Bare feet are more likely to slip off the pedals, especially in emergency situations where split-second reactions matter.
In addition, you have no foot protection in the event of a crash, sudden braking, or flying debris inside the car. Experts generally recommend driving in secure, closed-toe shoes with good grip and support to ensure full control and safety behind the wheel.
Can Driving Barefoot Affect Legal Liability?
Yes—especially if you’re involved in an accident.
While it’s not illegal, driving barefoot could be used against you if investigators or insurers determine it contributed to the crash. If it’s shown that you were unable to control the vehicle properly due to your lack of footwear, you could be cited for negligent driving.
That could lead to higher insurance premiums, reduced compensation in injury claims, or even being held responsible for another person’s injuries or damages.
Maryland’s Strict Contributory Negligence Law
One important detail to know is that Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. This means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault in an accident, you may not be able to recover any compensation—even if the other party was mostly responsible.
So if driving barefoot is seen as a contributing factor, your entire injury claim could be denied.
Driving Barefoot and Insurance Claims
When filing a car accident claim, insurers look at all contributing factors. If you’re barefoot and your actions played a role in the crash, your barefoot status might be used to reduce or deny your compensation. The idea is that you didn’t take all reasonable steps to ensure safe vehicle operation.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If you’re in a crash—barefoot or not—a qualified Maryland car accident attorney can protect your legal rights and help you pursue compensation. A lawyer can gather evidence, manage communication with insurers, and fight for your case in court if needed.
They can also address claims of contributory negligence and build a strong defense to minimize the impact of such arguments on your case.
Driving barefoot in Maryland isn’t illegal—but it’s not risk-free. From safety hazards to legal consequences, the decision to skip your shoes could carry serious implications if you’re involved in a crash. While it may offer short-term comfort, the long-term risks aren’t worth it. Always consider proper footwear to stay safe and legally protected on the road.
