Contrary to popular belief, driving barefoot in New Jersey is not illegal. There are no laws in the state that prohibit operating a vehicle without shoes.
This misconception has persisted for years, often passed down as an urban legend or cautionary tale from older relatives to new drivers.
Legal Status
New Jersey law does not specifically address driving barefoot. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website contains no information stating that drivers must wear shoes while operating a vehicle. In fact, no state in the United States has laws against driving barefoot.
Safety Considerations
While legal, driving barefoot is generally not recommended by law enforcement and safety experts for several reasons:
- Reduced control: Bare feet may have less traction on pedals compared to shoes.
- Potential for injury: In case of an accident, bare feet are more vulnerable to cuts or burns from hot pedals.
- Reaction time: Shoes can provide better leverage and quicker response when pressing pedals.
Best Practices
If you choose to drive barefoot in New Jersey:
- Ensure loose shoes are not on the driver’s side floor where they could interfere with pedals.
- Consider keeping a spare pair of shoes in your vehicle for emergencies.
- Be aware that while not illegal, barefoot driving could potentially be seen as a contributing factor if an accident occurs.
Other Driving Myths
The barefoot driving myth is often accompanied by other common misconceptions:
- Driving with interior lights on is not illegal in New Jersey.
- Wearing headphones while driving is legal in some states but may be restricted in others.
While driving barefoot in New Jersey won’t result in a ticket, it’s always best to prioritize safety and control when operating a vehicle.
Sources:
- https://1057thehawk.com/driving-barefoot-nj/
- https://nj1015.com/tackling-the-myth-is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-new-jersey/
- https://wobm.com/drive-barefoot-nj-legal/
- https://wpst.com/feet-dashboard-illegal-new-jersey/
- https://www.directauto.com/learning-center/driving-laws-and-safety/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot
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