As the summer sun heats up Arkansas, many residents trade in their shoes for sandals or go barefoot altogether. This raises the question: is it illegal to drive barefoot in Arkansas? The answer, like the summer weather, can be a bit hazy.
This blog article dives into the legal side of barefoot driving in Arkansas and explores the safety concerns associated with this practice. We’ll also provide tips on alternative footwear and keeping cool in your car for a safe and comfortable summer ride.
Arkansas Law on Barefoot Driving
This Article Includes
No Specific Law Against Barefoot Driving
Unlike some states, Arkansas has no laws specifically prohibiting driving barefoot. There’s no mention of footwear requirements in the state’s traffic code [Arkansas.gov, Arkansas Code Annotated Title 27: Transportation]. This means, technically, you can cruise down the streets of Little Rock or Fort Smith without any shoes on.
However, the lack of a specific law doesn’t necessarily mean it’s risk-free.
Potential Reckless Driving Charges
Law enforcement officers in Arkansas have the authority to pull you over for reckless driving if they believe your actions behind the wheel pose a danger to yourself or others. This means that even though barefoot driving isn’t illegal in itself, an officer could use it as evidence to support a reckless driving charge, especially if it contributes to an accident [GetJerry.com, Is Driving Barefoot Illegal in Arkansas?].
For instance, if you’re barefoot and have difficulty applying the brakes due to a loose sandal or a slippery pedal, and this results in an accident, you could face a reckless driving citation.
Safety Concerns of Barefoot Driving
Even if it’s not illegal, there are several safety reasons to avoid driving barefoot in Arkansas:
- Reduced Feel for Pedals: Bare feet may not have the same level of feel and control over the gas and brake pedals compared to shoes with good treads. This can be especially problematic in emergency situations where precise pedal control is crucial.
- Risk of Flipping Flops or Sandals: Flip-flops and sandals can easily slip off while driving, getting caught under the pedals and hindering your ability to brake or accelerate safely.
- Hot Weather and Slippery Pedals: During scorching Arkansas summers, car interiors can become very hot. This can cause your bare feet to sweat, making the pedals slippery and increasing the risk of losing control.
Alternatives to Barefoot Driving
While the law might not explicitly forbid it, there are safer and more comfortable alternatives to driving barefoot:
- Comfortable Shoes with Good Grip: Opt for shoes with good traction soles that provide a secure feel on the pedals. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or shoes with loose soles.
- Keeping Cool in the Car: Park in shaded areas whenever possible. Utilize your car’s air conditioning system effectively. Keep a cooling spray or wipes handy to freshen up on hot days.
Conclusion: Safety First Behind the Wheel
While there’s no law against driving barefoot in Arkansas, it’s important to prioritize safety over comfort behind the wheel. The potential for reduced control, loose footwear, and slippery pedals creates unnecessary risk. Opting for comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip and keeping your car cool are safer and more enjoyable alternatives for your summer drives throughout Arkansas.
Additional Resources:
- Arkansas.gov, Arkansas Code Annotated Title 27: Transportation https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/2020/title-27/
- GetJerry.com, Is Driving Barefoot Illegal in Arkansas? https://getjerry.com/driving/is-driving-barefoot-illegal-in-arkansas
