Over a third admit risky driving in summer footwear

Over a third of motorists admit driving in flip-flops or sliders during the summer heatwaves – but is it illegal?

• Younger drivers more likely to put themselves at a greater risk of losing control of vehicle
• Warning issued about summer footwear choices as drivers risk fines of up to £5,000

It's the footwear of choice for beaches and barbecues, but new research reveals that over a third (35%) of motorists have also been behind the wheel this summer in flip-flops, sliders or open-back sandals - footwear road safety experts say could potentially lead to the loss of control of a vehicle and road collisions.

The new research by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart suggests many motorists are putting themselves at risk behind the wheel by driving in unsuitable footwear during the summer heatwaves. A survey of 1,045 motorists conducted in July 2026 found:

• Over a third (35%) of motorists admitted to driving in loose fitting or open footwear during June, a fifth (22%) of whom claim they restricted it to short, local journeys in hot weather only
• An alarming 7% said they had been wearing loose, slip-on/slip-off footwear for every journey during June, regardless of distance, duration or weather conditions
• Younger drivers take the biggest risk, with 42% of 17-29 year olds and 38% of 30-34 year olds admitting to driving in sliders or flip-flops this summer
• Mature drivers prefer to stay in control, with 72% of drivers in their 50s and 80% of those in their 60s saying they didn’t drive in this type of footwear during June
• Women are more likely to do it, with 39% of women drivers admitting to wearing flip-flops, sliders or open-backed sandals behind the wheel, compared with 31% of men

Sole Responsibility

The findings confirm that the habit of driving in flipflops or sliders is now a worrying part of summer driving, yet IAM RoadSmart warns these types of footwear are not designed to grip pedals securely. They can slip off during a journey, become trapped underneath the brake or accelerator, or fail to provide adequate control during emergency braking - all of which can delay a driver's response at a critical moment. Bare feet carry similar risks, as sweat can reduce grip on the pedals.

While there is no specific legal restriction on driving in flip-flops, the Highway Code requires drivers to maintain proper control of their vehicle at all times, and unsuitable footwear could be considered relevant in the event of a collision. According to the Department of Transport, distraction and impairment were factors in around 34 per cent of fatal road collisions**in 2024 and while not all these will relate to footwear, the penalties for careless driving can range from a £100 fine and three points on a licence all the way up to £5,000 if the case is referred to court.

IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy and External Communications, Nicholas Lyes, said: "We all love kicking off our shoes when the sun's out, and flip-flops or sliders may be considered an essential clothing item in a British heatwave. The trouble is, while they're brilliant for the beach or the garden, they can seriously impact on your ability to drive safely. Our advice is to keep your flip flops handy in the boot, but wear something comfortable yet sturdy when behind the wheel. A slipped shoe or a slippery sole is all it takes to turn a sunny afternoon into a scary one.

Top tips for hot weather driving:

The research findings come as Britain enjoys one of the hottest summers on record, with temperatures topping 30°C for numerous days.

Footwear is one of several factors drivers should be mindful of during periods of high temperature:

• Footwear – Wear a pair of proper, secure shoes or trainers when driving. Change out of flip-flops or sliders before you get behind the wheel.
• Vehicle checks – Tyres are more prone to losing pressure or overheating in hot weather, so checking tread and pressure before a journey is advisable. Coolant levels should also be topped up.
• Hydration and fatigue – Dehydration and heat-related tiredness can slow reaction times. Drivers are encouraged to take fresh water for each journey, take regular breaks on longer journeys, and avoid driving during the hottest part of the day where possible.
• Glare – Bright sun and glare from other vehicles or wet road surfaces can reduce visibility. UV-blocking sunglasses, sun visors and clean windscreens can help.
• Breakdowns – Breakdowns are more frequent in hot weather with more stress on the vehicle’s machinery. Carrying water, a charged phone, and breakdown cover details is recommended, along with knowing how to pull over safely.

Ends

Notes to editors

For interviews, contact the IAM RoadSmart press office on press.office@iam.org.uk / 020 8996 9777

*Research conducted by IAM RoadSmart's Opinion Panel among 1,045 UK motorists during July 2026.

** Reported road causalities Great Britain, Annual Report 2024 by the Department for Transport Reported road casualties Great Britain, annual report: 2024 - GOV.UK

About IAM RoadSmart

IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s leading road safety charity providing advanced driver and rider training. We coach and educate road users, campaign for change and make journeys safer for everyone.

IAM RoadSmart was formed in March 1956 and has around 70,000 members and 5,000 volunteers that support its campaigns on road safety. At any one time there are more than 7,000 drivers and riders actively engaged with IAM RoadSmart’s courses.

To find out more about IAM RoadSmart go to: www.iamroadsmart.com

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