Drivers are being warned that seven common spring and summer fashion choices could lead to fines or penalties if worn behind the wheel. Motoring experts at LeaseLoco have cautioned that items like flip-flops, oversized sunglasses, long skirts, and wide-brimmed hats can impair a driver's ability to stay in full control of their vehicle, potentially resulting in a £100 fine and three penalty points.
Although there are no specific laws banning certain clothes or accessories while driving, Rule 97 of the Highway Code advises motorists to ensure that “clothing and footwear do not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner.” If police believe your outfit has affected your ability to drive safely or contributed to an accident, you could be penalised for careless driving.
Penalties for Careless Driving
Driving without full control due to inappropriate attire can be treated as careless driving, leading to a £100 fine and three penalty points. In more serious cases, such as accidents or significant loss of control, fines could rise to £5,000, with nine penalty points or even a driving ban. With many Brits heading to beaches, festivals, and pub gardens this summer, experts urge drivers to think twice before getting behind the wheel in risky wardrobe choices.
Expert Warning
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, commented: “It’s easy to overlook how your choice of clothing or footwear can affect your driving, especially in hot weather, but even something as simple as a pair of flip-flops or a long skirt can reduce your control of a vehicle. If this leads to an accident or you’re stopped by police, you could face serious consequences. So we’re urging all drivers to think practically before getting behind the wheel this spring and summer - your outfit shouldn’t compromise your safety or anyone else’s.”
Seven Summer Style Staples That Could Land Drivers in Hot Water
Flip-flops or backless sandals
They may be comfortable and go with most summer outfits, but they also offer little grip or control, and they can easily slip off or get caught under the pedals. Wearing this kind of footwear could even be deemed as driving without due care and attention, which incurs a penalty of £100 and three points on your licence.
Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses is a smart way to reduce glare while driving in bright summer conditions - but not all sunglasses are road safe. If your shades are too dark or don’t have the correct CE or UKCA markings, they could impair your vision rather than improve it. Sunglasses labelled as Category 4, for example, are too dark for driving and can land you in trouble. Always check the serial numbers and markings to make sure your eyewear is suitable and legal for use on the road.
High heels
Whether you’re heading to a summer party or just like the added height, high heels can significantly reduce your ability to operate pedals smoothly. Again, if your footwear affects your control of the vehicle, you could be hit with a £100 fine and three points on your licence.
Loose or long skirts and dresses
Flowy summer outfits might help keep you cool, but extra-long or baggy material could get caught on the pedals or gear stick. If your clothing prevents you from driving safely, you could be penalised.
Swimwear or shirtless driving
Don’t be tempted to drive home from the beach in your swimwear or without a shirt as minimal clothing could be seen as inappropriate or even distracting to other drivers. While not against the law on its own, you might still face questions from police if your outfit is considered unsafe or a distraction.
Barefoot
Driving barefoot reduces your ability to apply pressure to the pedals and could result in less control. While it’s not technically illegal, if you’re involved in an accident or stopped by police, you could still be penalised for unsafe driving.
Wide brimmed hats
They’re stylish and great for sun protection, but large sun hats can obstruct your peripheral vision or even fall forward and block your view. If your hat interferes with your ability to see the road, it could be considered unsafe.
