Is it Legal to Drive Barefoot in Massachusetts?

Published in Car Accidents on January 4, 2021

Reading Time: 3 minutes

There is not a law prohibiting driving without shoes in Massachusetts. In fact, none of the 50 states ban barefoot driving. Therefore, you can kick your shoes off and drive your vehicle in your socks or bare feet. 

However, driving without shoes might not be a wise decision. There are some risks associated with driving barefoot.

Can it Be Dangerous to Drive Barefoot in Massachusetts?

Driving without shoes could cause a car accident. Your bare feet do not have the traction that your shoe’s sole has when it is on the pedal. If your foot is wet, it could slip off the pedal, causing an accident.

If you stub your toe on the pedal or other part of the vehicle, you might jerk your foot off the brake. You could also have a foot cramp that might result in moving your foot at the wrong moment.

Another issue is distractions while driving. Your shoes could slide around, causing a distraction as you try to move them away from the pedals.

People who favor driving without shoes would argue that the above situations could occur even when you are wearing shoes. They might point out that some types of shoes could increase the risk of a car crash. 

The bottom line is that you can drive barefoot in Massachusetts, but you might want to consider all relevant information before slipping off your shoes in the car.

What Shoes Are Best for Driving?

Sensible shoes are the best driving shoes. They are closed-in shoes with good tractions and low heels. Many tennis shoes are good examples of safe driving shoes. 

Some shoes are not as suitable or safe for driving. For example, high-heeled shoes may not be safe. The heels can become stuck in the floor mat. 

Heavy boots may become stuck between pedals. Flip-flops, slides, and sandals may slip off your foot and become lodged between or underneath the pedals.

You do not necessarily need to give up your favorite shoes. Many people keep a pair of driving shoes in their vehicles. They change shoes for driving, which can help when their other shoes are wet because of rain or snow.

Reducing Your Risk of a Car Accident in Massachusetts

Choosing safe shoes for driving is just one way you can reduce your risk of a car crash. There are many other ways that you can avoid a car accident.

Safety tips for decreasing the chance that you are injured in a motor vehicle accident include:

• Always obey speed limits
• Decrease your speed during poor driving conditions, such as heavy traffic, poor weather conditions, and work zones
• Avoid driving when you are tired or drowsy
• Do not text while driving and avoid distractions that take your focus away from driving
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Pay attention to bicyclists and pedestrians, especially at intersections, crosswalks, neighborhoods, and city streets
• Always wear seat belts and use car seats and booster seats for children
• Do not follow too closely or tailgate
• Never drive when you are upset or angry

For more road safety tips for Massachusetts drivers, you can visit the Commonwealth of Massachusetts blog. 

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

The first two priorities after a car accident are your health and reporting the accident. Call 911 to report the car crash to the police and request help. If anyone involved in the accident is injured, request emergency medical services. 

Do not admit fault at the accident scene. Even though Massachusetts is a no-fault insurance state, you might have a claim against the at-fault driver for additional damages. It is best to talk with a personal injury lawyer before assuming you cannot file a claim for damages.

Seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Some car accident injuries may not be immediately recognized after the crash. The shock of the accident could mask some symptoms.

Prompt medical care can prevent injuries from becoming worse. It can help you when you file a personal injury claim. 

Documentation of your injuries is necessary to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Delaying medical care could hurt your case. The insurance company may argue that the automobile accident did not cause your injuries. 

Keep detailed notes about your injuries, financial losses, pain, suffering, and other damages. If you are unsure of the steps you need to take to protect your right to compensation, you may want to consult with a lawyer. Understanding your legal rights and the process of filing insurance claims in Massachusetts is the best way to protect your best interests.

For more information, call our law office at (617)-391-9001. Or if you would prefer to email us, then please visit our contact page.

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