Recent reminders from road authorities have asked that Australian drivers rethink their choice of footwear when getting behind the wheel. There is no law that bans driving in thongs or slippers, but wearing the aforementioned footwear while driving can land the motorist in blow with the law if it puts the motorist in the position to lose control of the vehicle. The fine associated with reckless driving is an exorbitant $2,200 in some states, which is primarily responsible for the growing discourse around the safety of drivers and the lack of concern for some actions while driving.
There is no Direct Ban, but There is a Legal Risk
There is no legislation across Australia that specifically bans driving barefoot, or in slippers or thongs. However, wearing any footwear that might impede the safe and effective controlling of a motor vehicle is disregarding the road safety legislation, especially in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. If an officer of the law determines that the choice of footwear worn while driving has played a role in the driving actions and manner which fall under the category of careless driving or dangerous driving, a fine, in addition to license demerit points, could be levied.
The $2,200 Maximum Fine Scenario
| Offense Description | Fine Amount | Demerit Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving recklessly or without due control | Up to $2,200 | Determined by court | Maximum court-imposed penalty; magistrate decides based on circumstances including footwear |
| Not having proper control of motor vehicle (spot fine) | Approximately $487 | 3 | Common fine when footwear causes loss of control but less severe than reckless driving |
| Other general unsafe driving offenses | Varies | Varies | Includes other infringements; fines and points vary depending on severity and context |
Why Footwear Matters for Drivers
Experts in safety remind us that loose or slippery footwear can result in a driver’s foot sliding off a brake or delaying a foot on a brake, or ending up wedged under the accelerator or brake pedals. Slippers, thongs or sandals that are open and have loose straps or somewhere a foot can fall out of are particularly worrisome. Advocates of road safety argue that footwear which is stable and enclosed should be worn by drivers to eliminate the possibility of losing control of a vehicle and reduce the chances of an accident.
A leading Dr’s opinion
Dr Keith Hume, who for many years taught and published on road safety, says that it is simply common sense to wear suitable footwear behind the wheel. The transport to NSW and other agencies have informed that driving in shoes which can slip off or that unbuckled or without the ability to maneuver quickly isn’t worth the risk.
Public Response and Awareness
Comparing slippers and thongs showed there are different opinions on the subject. Some people argue that there has never been an issue with Australians driving in thongs, while others feel that more laws are needed to A dispute. For now, the focus of the Public stretches to education and awareness and does not include any outright bans.
A Reminder for Drivers Nationwide
Again, the above mentioned figure, $2,200, serves as a warning of a cap on the legal ramifications that can happen if reckless driving is connected to the choice of shoes in Australia. It is very important that the drivers take all necessary precautions and make sure that whenever they intend to drive, they are wearing appropriate shoes. The argument that the shoes we wear can make the difference between a road safety incident and life threatening injury is a finished argument which has been noted down by road safety authorities.
