Driving barefoot remains fully legal in Utah under state traffic laws, with no statutes mandating footwear for vehicle operation. Utah Highway Patrol emphasizes safety over mandates, noting that barefoot driving poses risks like reduced pedal grip during emergencies. While no citations target bare feet alone, reckless operation charges apply if it contributes to accidents.
State Legal Framework
Utah Code § 41-6a-1601 requires safe vehicle control but omits footwear specifics, aligning with all 50 states’ permissive stance. Local ordinances prove rare; Farr West City’s barefoot ban applies only to pedestrians, not drivers. No 2026 amendments introduced shoe requirements amid distracted driving focus.
Safety Concerns Highlighted
Bare feet slip easily on pedals, especially sweaty or wet, delaying braking by up to 20% per expert tests. Emergency maneuvers demand shoe traction for precise throttle and ABS response. Utah DMV manuals advise closed-toe protection, citing injury risks from glass or hot surfaces post-crash.
Enforcement Realities
Troopers issue no barefoot tickets during stops unless tied to impairment like DUI. Post-accident fault hinges on control loss; insurers may deny claims or hike rates, viewing it as negligence. Dash cam evidence clarifies pedal slips in disputes.
Insurance and Liability Angles
Auto policies exclude coverage if barefoot driving proximately causes wrecks, per Utah case law on contributory fault. Plaintiffs leverage it in suits, reducing awards by 10-30% under comparative negligence. Safe drivers opt for thin-soled shoes balancing comfort and grip.
Commercial Driver Distinctions
CDL holders follow FMCSA guidelines urging secure footwear, with logbooks noting violations during inspections. Rideshare firms like Uber prohibit it via contracts, risking deactivation. Personal vehicles grant full leeway absent local quirks.
Best Practices Moving Forward
Carry slip-on shoes for highways, prioritizing rubber soles over flip-flops. Practice barefoot stops in empty lots to gauge limits. No federal push alters state norms through 2026.
SOURCES:
- https://sportsradio977.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-utah/
- https://teamjustice.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot/
