Mitchell | June 26, 2020 | Alabama Law

Driving a car barefoot is legal in Alabama as it is in all 50 states. However, that does not mean that it is a good idea to go without shoes while driving a car. Driving barefoot can be dangerous in some situations.

However, driving a motorcycle while barefoot is illegal in Alabama. According to Section 35-5A-245 of the Code of Alabama, no one is permitted to operate a motorcycle or ride a motorcycle unless the person is wearing shoes. The section does not apply to anyone riding within an enclosed cab.

So, if you want to drive a car or truck in Alabama barefoot, you are free to do so. If you are on a motorcycle barefoot, you could receive a traffic ticket.

Dangers of Driving Barefoot in Alabama

It may not result in a traffic ticket, but driving barefoot could result in a car accident. If your feet are wet, your foot could slip off the pedal, thereby causing an accident. Likewise, if your foot cramps or you suddenly have a pain in your foot, you could accidentally remove your foot from the pedal or press down, which could lead to an accident.

People who believe driving barefoot is safe might argue that the above scenarios could occur even if you were wearing shoes. That could be true. They may also point out that some shoes could pose a danger while driving.

For example, flip flops or slides could slip off the foot while driving and become lodged beneath or between the pedals. High heels can make it difficult to drive if the heel becomes lodged in the floor mat. Also, there is less surface on the bottom of a high-heeled shoe to touch the vehicle’s pedals.

Boots can pose a problem while driving. A heavy, wide boot can make it more difficult to control the pedals. Boots can also become wedged between pedals.

Wear Sensible Shoes While Driving in Mobile

Many people keep a pair of driving shoes or tennis shoes in the car. If they are barefoot or wearing certain types of shoes, they change into their driving shoes to drive. It can also be helpful to have a spare pair of shoes in the car in case your feet or shoes are wet or slick because of weather or other conditions.

Avoiding Car Accidents in Alabama

Traffic accidents increased by almost two percent in Alabama from 2017 to 2018. On average, a person was injured in a traffic accident every 11 minutes and 5 seconds during 2018. Someone died every 9 hours and 10 minutes in traffic accidents.

Based on the data collected in 2018, Alabama drivers have a greater than one in three chance of being involved in a fatal or injury traffic crash during their lifetime. With a probability of more than 90 percent that you could be involved in some type of car accident during your lifetime, it is good to review safety tips that help avoid car accidents.

Safety tips that can avoid a car accident or reduce your risk of injury or death from a car accident include:

  • Always pay attention and focus on the task of driving. Distracted driving continues to kill and injure thousands of people each year.
  • Do not drink and drive. Drunk driving accidents are preventable. Choose a designated driver, make plans to stay overnight, or arrange for alternate transportation home if you intend to consume alcohol.
  • Avoid driving when fatigued or drowsy. Driving drowsy can be as dangerous as driving under the influence.
  • Slow down. Speeding is a common cause of car accidents. Higher speeds also increase the risk of catastrophic injuries and death from car crashes.
  • Watch for pedestrians, motorcycles, and bicyclists.
  • Always wear your seat belt. Children should be in an approved safety seat based on their weight, height, and age. The AAP revised its recommendations for child safety seats in 2018.
  • Maintain your vehicle in proper working order. Improper maintenance can increase the risk of a car accident. Change your tires when they show signs of wear and tear. Check for recalls for automobiles and auto parts and make necessary repairs immediately.
  • Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. If you are driving near a large truck, learn how to avoid the truck’s blind spots.
  • Program your GPS and other vehicle controls before leaving home. If you need to adjust controls or the GPS while driving, pull over to a safe location.
  • Do not drive while you are upset or angry. You can be distracted or more aggressive, which increases your chance of being in a car crash.

If you are in a car accident, call 911 to report the traffic accident and request help. See a doctor as soon as possible. If you have questions about a personal injury claim, seek help from a car accident attorney.