On a hot summer day, it’s tempting to kick off your flip-flops or shoes while driving to feel more relaxed. But then the question pops into your head — is it even legal to drive barefoot in Tennessee? The simple answer is yes, it is legal. In fact, no state in the U.S., including Tennessee, has laws that make barefoot driving illegal.
But while it’s allowed, is it really safe or wise? Let’s take a closer look.
Driving Barefoot is Legal in Tennessee
You can breathe easy — there are no state laws in Tennessee that ban driving without shoes. Even across the United States, you won’t find a law that directly makes barefoot driving illegal. So if you decide to drive barefoot, you’re not breaking any state rule.
What About Local City Rules?
Although the state allows it, some local towns or cities might have their own small rules (called ordinances) about footwear while driving. To avoid any trouble, it’s a good idea to check the laws in your area, especially if you plan to drive barefoot often.
Is Barefoot Driving a Good Idea?
Even though it’s legal, barefoot driving might not be the safest choice. Here’s why:
Bare feet can easily slip off the pedals, especially if they are wet. That’s because shoes have more grip and a bigger surface to press the pedals properly. Also, pressing pedals with bare feet can lead to leg cramps, which can affect how well you control your car. In an accident, bare feet offer no protection and can easily get hurt.
If your shoes are lying near the pedals while you’re driving barefoot, they could slide under the brake or accelerator and block them — this can cause serious accidents.
Is Inappropriate Footwear Dangerous Too?
Yes. Wearing the wrong type of shoes while driving can be just as risky, or sometimes worse than driving barefoot.
Flip-Flops
Flip-flops can slip off your feet or get stuck under the pedals. This can make it hard to brake in an emergency. One study in the UK found that 1 in 14 drivers had an accident or near-miss due to flip-flops.
Shoes With Long Laces
Shoes with long or untied laces can get tangled around the pedals, making it difficult to control the car. Make sure your laces are tied tight or tucked in before driving.
High Heels and Platform Shoes
Very high heels or thick platform shoes can make it hard to press the pedals properly. They can also get stuck under the pedals, making it difficult to react quickly in dangerous situations.
How to Stay Safe While Driving
Although there are not many official reports about barefoot driving causing accidents, a U.S. study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that pedal misapplication — pressing the wrong pedal — can lead to accidents. Poor footwear could be one of the causes.
To stay safe, keep a simple pair of driving shoes in your car. They don’t need to be stylish — just safe and comfortable. That way, you can switch into them before you drive and avoid any trouble with your shoes or your bare feet.
Will Driving Barefoot Affect a Legal Case?
If you’re in a car accident and were barefoot or wearing unsafe shoes, you won’t automatically be blamed. But if your footwear caused or contributed to the crash, it could affect how fault is decided, especially if the police or insurance company finds out.
How Labrum Law Firm Can Help You
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone who was driving barefoot or in unsafe footwear, Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers can help. We know how to gather proof, speak to insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed.
We can help with:
- Collecting evidence to show who was at fault
- Talking to the other person’s insurance company
- Proving your losses and injuries
- Filing your legal documents
- Fighting for your rights in court if necessary
Driving barefoot in Tennessee is legal, but that doesn’t mean it’s always safe. Flip-flops, high heels, and even untied shoes can also be risky while driving. To avoid accidents or being blamed for one, wear proper footwear or keep a safe pair of shoes in your vehicle. If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by someone driving carelessly, the experienced team at Labrum Law Firm can help you fight for compensation. Legal help is just one call away at (615) 685-8546.
