As the festive season approaches, Brits are being urged to think twice before slipping on their favourite seasonal footwear behind the wheel. From glittering stilettos at holiday parties to cosy slippers for quick trips to the shops, our winter shoe choices are as diverse as the season itself, but not all are road-safe.
Claire Wills-McKissick, a temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, has issued a stark warning, as certain shoes could put drivers at risk of fines, safety hazards, and even invalidate their insurance.
Wills-McKissick said: “The type of footwear you wear might seem trivial, but it can directly impact your driving safety.
“Even short journeys can become dangerous if your shoes make it hard to feel or control the pedals properly. Many people don’t realise that a moment of distraction caused by uncomfortable or unsafe footwear can have serious consequences.”
One common culprit is wellies and large walking boots.
While these boots are perfect for frosty walks or muddy fields, their bulky design and potentially slippery soles can reduce pedal control.
Even a flat, hard-soled variety can become hazardous if mud, leaves, or debris stick to the soles, making it easier to slip while braking or accelerating.
Small distractions, such as a stone inside the boot, can cause drivers to fidget and lose focus on the road.
The potential fines for careless driving due to unsafe footwear are eye-watering. Drivers can face on-the-spot fines starting at £100, with serious cases escalating to as much as £5,000 if the matter goes to court.
Insurance may also be invalidated if a collision is linked to unsafe driving habits caused by inappropriate shoes.
High heels, slippers, and even flip-flops are also discouraged. Shoes that restrict movement, have slippery soles, or do not allow the driver to properly feel the pedals can all increase the risk of accidents.
Wills-McKissick advises drivers to swap risky shoes for safer alternatives whenever possible.
She added: “Consider footwear that provides a secure grip and lets you feel the pedals accurately.
“If you’re worried about changing shoes on the go, temporary car insurance could cover another driver who’s properly shod for the journey.”
With festive celebrations and winter weather making roads trickier than usual, experts say this season is the perfect reminder that safe driving starts from the ground up.
Choosing the right shoes could mean the difference between a safe journey and a costly fine.
