Items Not to Wear While Driving This Summer

Drivers have been warned against getting behind the wheel while wearing summer holiday clothing such as swimwear and flip-flops. Experts have named five popular summer clothing items which can get drivers fined or even banned if caught wearing them. 

Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers must not wear clothes which restrict their movement and prevent them from properly using the controls.

While most drivers may be aware that it is against the law to drive barefoot, many clothing items can prevent a driver from effectively braking, leading to dangerous driving and increasing the risk of accidents.

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “It’s vital for motorists to be comfortable while driving, but this mustn’t come at the expense of safety.

“Brits wear many clothing pieces every day in summer, without realising they may harm their ability to drive correctly.

“Clothes like sliders and flip-flops are a staple in any summer wardrobe, but wearing them while driving can prevent motorists from having proper control over their pedals, so they’re something to avoid wearing when behind the wheel.

“Many of us wear sunglasses when driving to avoid being dazzled by the summer sun, but drivers must ensure that their glasses don’t obstruct their view, as this could also be a hazard.”

Here are LeaseCar.UK‘s five everyday summer clothes to avoid wearing when driving:

1. Flip-flops

Sliders and flip-flops are popular summer items many wear when driving to and from the beach or pool. However, studies have shown that motorists wearing flip-flops have less control over their pedals and are less effective at braking. This will make driving more risky and should be avoided. Experts recommend that motorists wear substantial shoes such as trainers when driving, which allow them to have optimal control over their vehicle.

2. Sunglasses

Many people during summer are never spotted without their sunglasses on. While the right pair of sunglasses may help people to avoid being dazzled by the sun, a poorly fitting pair could obstruct vision when driving. Motorists must ensure that their sunglasses are appropriate and that their glasses do not impair their vision.

3. Loose Clothing

During the summertime, many women wear more comfortable loose dresses and loose-flowing trousers, allowing breathability. What many do not realise, though, is that dresses and trousers like this often get trapped beneath people’s feet when driving, causing problems when it comes to using the pedals.

4. Tight Clothing

While many people prefer wearing loose clothing during the summer, some like wearing tight dresses, and tight shorts for men have become more prevalent in recent years. Still, excessively tight clothes restricting movement are not ideal for driving. The experts at LeaseCar.uk recommend that people wear the most comfortable clothes they can while driving.

5. Swim Clothing

Many people find it convenient to wear swim clothing to the beach or pool to save having to change. Then after their summer swim, they drive home in damp clothing. This can be uncomfortable, leading to less movement when driving than necessary, restricting vehicle control.