Driving barefoot in Maryland is not illegal. There is no state law that prohibits operating a vehicle without shoes, and you cannot be pulled over or fined simply for driving barefoot.
This is a common misconception, but both Maryland law and the laws of all other U.S. states allow drivers to choose their footwear-or lack thereof-while behind the wheel.
Safety and Liability Considerations
While it’s legal, driving barefoot is not always recommended. Bare feet may have less traction on pedals, increasing the risk of your foot slipping and potentially causing a loss of control.
If you are involved in an accident and it’s determined that driving barefoot contributed to the incident, you could be cited for negligent or reckless driving. This could lead to fines, higher insurance premiums, or even civil liability if someone is injured.
Key Takeaways
- Legal: You can legally drive barefoot in Maryland.
- Not Recommended: Safety experts and law firms advise wearing secure, comfortable shoes for better pedal control.
- Potential Consequences: If barefoot driving contributes to an accident, you could face legal and financial repercussions for negligent or reckless driving.
Driving barefoot in Maryland is legal, but if it impairs your control and leads to an accident, you could still face serious consequences. For safety, it’s best to wear proper footwear when driving.
Sources:
- https://www.mooney4law.com/blog/can-i-drive-without-shoes-in-maryland/
- https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/driving-while-barefoot/
- https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-barefoot/
- https://www.iamelelawfirmbaltimore.com/driving-barefoot-and-negligence/