Is it illegal to drive barefoot in New Hampshire? Here’s What Law Says!

Published On: February 20, 2025

Is it illegal to drive barefoot in New Hampshire? Here's What Law Says!

Driving barefoot in New Hampshire is not illegal, but it’s important to understand the potential risks and safety considerations associated with this practice.

Legal Status

Contrary to popular belief, there is no law in New Hampshire that prohibits driving without shoes. In fact, this is true for all 50 states in the United States. The misconception that barefoot driving is illegal likely stems from safety concerns and the general advice against the practice.

Safety Considerations

While legal, driving barefoot in New Hampshire is not recommended due to several safety risks:

Reduced Traction: Bare feet may provide less grip on the pedals compared to shoes, potentially affecting your control over the vehicle.
Distraction: For some drivers, the sensation of driving barefoot can be distracting, taking attention away from the road.
Injury Risk: In the event of an accident, bare feet are more susceptible to cuts, lacerations, and other injuries.

Legal Implications

Although driving barefoot isn’t illegal, it’s important to note that if you cause an accident while driving without shoes, you could still face legal consequences:

Loss of Control: If barefoot driving leads to loss of vehicle control, you could be cited for violating Section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which requires proper control of the vehicle.
Careless Driving: In severe cases, barefoot driving resulting in an accident could be considered careless driving, potentially leading to fines and points on your license.

Comparison with Other Footwear

Interestingly, some types of footwear are considered more dangerous than driving barefoot:

Flip-flops and High Heels: These are often deemed worse than bare feet for driving, as they can easily slip off or get caught on pedals.

State Recommendations

While New Hampshire doesn’t have specific laws against barefoot driving, the state, like many others, discourages the practice due to safety concerns. It’s always advisable to wear appropriate footwear while driving to ensure optimal control and safety.

Motorcycle Considerations

It’s worth noting that while barefoot car driving is legal, the rules for motorcycles can be different. Some states have specific laws or recommendations regarding footwear for motorcycle riders, although New Hampshire’s stance on this isn’t explicitly mentioned in the search results.

Public Perception and Enforcement

Despite being legal, driving barefoot may still be viewed negatively by law enforcement. While you can’t receive a ticket specifically for barefoot driving, police officers may advise against it if they notice during a traffic stop.

In conclusion, while it’s not illegal to drive barefoot in New Hampshire, it’s generally not recommended due to safety concerns. The best practice is to wear comfortable, secure footwear that allows for proper control of the vehicle’s pedals. Remember, even though it’s legal, safety should always be the top priority when operating a motor vehicle.