Motorists at risk of fines and penalty points for hot weather flip-flop rule

Drivers could be slapped with a £100 fine and up to three penalty points on their driving licence by breaking a little-known footwear rule. A mini-heatwave has basked the nation this week with the hottest start to May recorded on Thursday. Desperate to cool down and enjoy the sun, many people will take off their trainers and opt for sandals and flip-flops instead.

However, getting behind the wheel with certain types of footwear could backfire with road users at risk of being caught out. Rhydian Jones, car insurance expert at Confused.com stressed road users could be considered to be driving without due care and attention if they don’t have full control of their pedals.

He said: “It can be confusing to know the rules when it comes to driving in the correct clothing, footwear and accessories in the summer.

“And with the weather pretty toasty, drivers might be reaching for their flip-flops and sunglasses to beat the heat. But it’s important to know how this could impact your driving.

"Our research found that 16% of drivers have had an accident or near-miss due to driving in flip flops or when wearing sunglasses.

“While it isn't against the law to drive in certain footwear or clothes, if you get involved in an accident, you could be charged for driving without due care and attention.

“This could result in a £100 fine and three points added to your licence. That's why you should always make sure your driving capability isn't impacted and that you have full control of your vehicle at all times."

“It's important to be aware of all the smaller driving rules you may not know.”

Breakdown experts at the RAC stressed there were some basic guidelines road users should follow when picking footwear.

According to the specialists, drivers should ensure their footwear does not have a sole no thicker than 10mm.

Footwear should also provide enough grip to stop feet sliding off their pedals and not limit ankle movement.

They added: “It’s important to have a good base and grip to apply pressure to the pedals, but you need a certain degree of finesse to manipulate the controls.

“If not, you could strike the brake and accelerator together, producing a heart-in-mouth incident.”