WHILE there is no law stipulating what footwear can and can’t be worn when driving, there is an increased awareness around the shoes considered inappropriate for driving in.

Flip flops (slops) have come under the spotlight in recent weeks after Arrive Alive highlighted a 2005 British survey revealing this summer foot attire – a firm favourite among South Africans – to be the most dangerous type of shoe to drive in.

In fact, in the United Kingdom they are considered so dangerous that, while not illegal to drive in, a driver can incur a 5000GBP (approximately R97 000) fine, nine penalty points (on your drivers licence) and a road ban should said driver find themselves in an accident while driving in flip flops.

This is because flip flops are considered inappropriate driving footwear and could lead to a careless driving charge.

Back in sunny South Africa where we almost live in flip flops year round, the experts at Arrive Alive agree with the notion of how unsafe they are to wear while driving.

Why are flip flops so dangerous when driving?

• Flip flops do not have adequate ankle support, resulting in the foot slipping off the pedal or missing the pedal altogether
• They come off too easily and get easily jammed / trapped under a pedal
• Pedals getting caught between the sole of your foot and the flip-flop leads to a reduction of control to the vehicle
• Flip flops make it more difficult to brake effectively as it increases the amount of time it takes to brake
• They make it difficult for drivers applying full braking or releasing the clutch brake or accelerator
• Flip flops slipping off the feet of the driver distracts the driver trying to locate the flip flop and putting it back on his foot
• Similar to driving barefoot, the flip-flops leave the feet mostly exposed in the event of a frontal crash
• While footwear is unlikely to prevent these injuries, a suitable pair of shoes may assist in reducing injuries in less serious crashes
• If a suitable pair of shoes is not available, it will be safer to remove the flip flops and drive bare foot

So, stay safe on the roads this festive season and resist the urge to drive in your flip flops – rather, drive in sensible footwear and take your flip flops with you, to be put on upon reaching your destination.

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