If you’re like many women who drive in heels, it is important that you understand why it is so dangerous. While it might not be against the law, driving in heels affects your driving ability – no matter how good a driver you think you are.
“No matter how glamorous, driving in heels is possibly the worst choice for driving,” says the Automobile Association (AA).
Take a look at the following information from the AA before you decide to drive in heels again…
How do shoes affect your driving ability?
When you’re driving, your feet and ankles are hard at work using the pedals to accelerate, brake, and engage and release the clutch. Therefore, it’s important that your choice of footwear gives you freedom of movement of your feet and allows you to maintain better control of the car.
Why is driving in heels so dangerous?
Besides damaging your precious shoes, driving in heels could cause a crash because achieving the correct pedal position and action requires the heel of your foot to rest on the floor. If you’re driving in heels, then your heel is elevated, and you won’t be able to judge how much pressure to apply to the pedals. Not only that, but your heel could also get caught in the floor mat, or, even worse, become stuck under the pedal. Imagine needing to brake in an emergency and your heel is wedged under the brake pedal?
How do you choose the correct footwear for safe driving?
It all comes down to the soles of your shoes. Thick soles prevent your feet from feeling the pedals and judging the correct amount of pressure to apply. Wide soles are also to be avoided as you could possibly press two pedals at the same time. Choose shoes which have good grip on the soles, so that they won’t slip off the pedals. Be sure to check that the soles are not too thick or too wide.
Should you drive barefoot?
No. Just like driving in heels, there are associated risks with going it barefoot. While not technically illegal (in fact, South African law doesn’t have any restrictions on footwear for driving), you should still avoid barefoot driving. Your bare feet are more likely to cramp while driving, plus they could become slippery from perspiration.
Top Tip: Keep a pair of flats in your car for driving. That way, you can slip off your heels, slip on your flats, and arrive at your destination safely.
Also read: 5 safety tips for women on the road
To stay safe and moving on the road, make the sensible choice – sensible footwear choice, that is.
