It is not illegal to drive barefoot in Oregon. Like all 50 states, Oregon does not have any law or statute that explicitly forbids operating a motor vehicle without shoes.
The idea that driving barefoot is illegal is a widespread myth, but official inquiries to state agencies have confirmed that there are no such prohibitions in Oregon or anywhere else in the U.S.
Safety and Liability Considerations
While it’s legal, driving barefoot is generally discouraged by safety experts. Bare feet may not provide as much grip or control on the pedals as proper footwear, potentially increasing the risk of slipping or delayed reaction in an emergency.
Some states and safety organizations recommend wearing appropriate shoes for better pedal control, but this is advice-not law.
Important:
If you are involved in an accident while driving barefoot, law enforcement or insurance companies could argue that your lack of footwear contributed to careless or reckless driving.
In such cases, you might face penalties under Oregon’s careless or reckless driving statutes, not for being barefoot, but for failing to maintain safe control of your vehicle.
Local Regulations
There are no known local ordinances in Oregon that ban barefoot driving. Statewide, you are free to drive without shoes, but always ensure your footwear (or lack thereof) does not hinder your ability to drive safely.
Summary Table: Barefoot Driving in Oregon
| Issue | Legal Status in Oregon |
|---|---|
| Driving barefoot | Legal |
| Advised by safety orgs | Not recommended |
| Accident liability | Possible if barefoot contributed to unsafe driving |
It is completely legal to drive barefoot in Oregon. However, for your safety and to avoid potential liability in the event of an accident, it’s best to wear secure, comfortable shoes when driving.
Sources:
- https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-barefoot/
- https://www.oregon.gov/odot/dmv/pages/online_manual/study-section_7.aspx
- https://www.superlawyers.com/resources/criminal-defense/driving-barefoot-is-it-legal/
- https://www.directauto.com/learning-center/driving-laws-and-safety/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot