Is It Illegal To Drive Barefoot In New York State?

I hate wearing shoes, sneakers, or pretty much anything else that is considered footwear. Yes, I know. That sounds a bit weird. Well, my feet get hot quickly, and while I will tolerate wearing socks, shoes come off whenever I can get away with it.

As soon as I get home, off come the shoes and socks. I will wear slippers if I'm walking around, but otherwise, let the feet breathe! At work, my co-workers are used to seeing me taking my shoes off when I get into my office. Been doing that for a long time, and I'm not about to stop. Yes, I change my socks regularly.

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I've even gone as far as driving my vehicle wearing slippers, or sometimes with only socks, and even a few times barefoot, although it's been a long time since I did that.

The question there is, is it illegal to drive a motor vehicle barefoot? Well, according to the website of Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP, it is not illegal to drive barefoot in the State of New York. You cannot be ticketed in New York State for driving with nothing on your feet. This is also the same law in Pennsylvania.

But, and there is always a 'but' in these cases, it's not recommended. The RWHW Law Firm states that traffic safety experts say that shoes distribute your weight better when stepping on the pedal. And the grip is better as well. That should be a no-brainer. And back-less shoes are also not recommended when driving a motor vehicle since they can easily slip off.

The RWHM Law Firm notes that if you get into an accident with another vehicle while driving barefoot, the motorist's lawyer or insurance company could use that against you. That's something you don't want to have to deal with in court. Be safe, and wear proper footwear when driving. I'll try to do the same.

[via Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP]