Driving in snow boots or wellies could land you in court as temperatures plummet

17 January 2023 , 13:54

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Even though it may seem a sensible idea, it's best not to drive in wellies or any other rugged winter boot. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

As the wintry January weather really starts to bite, getting behind the wheel in heavy winter boots - or shoes still wet with rainwater or snow - could be one of the most expensive mistakes you ever make.

The Met Office has warned that all of England will experience cold weather from now until Friday morning, so the temptation to drive in more rugged footwear can be overwhelming.

And previous research from Aviva shows more than one person in eight (13 per cent) has driven in wellies; but in doing so they risk a £5,000 fine, nine points on their licence and possibly even end up in court.

This is because if you're in an accident - no matter who's to blame - your footwear could well be held against you.

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Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

Even if the shoes are fine, having snow or water on them could be a problem (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Even sensible, regular shoes can be a problem

And even people with sensible, regular shoes could be pulled up if water or ice causes them to slip on the pedals.

Rule 97 of the Highway Code says motorists should ensure "clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner" - and that's merely the first rule that can be held against you.

Secondly, inadequate footwear or wet pedals can be used as evidence in a ­reckless or dangerous driving charge.

And thirdly, if you're deemed to have acted irresponsibly, you can invalidate your insurance - leaving you responsible for repair bills, damages and potentially even injury compensation of anyone involved in an accident.

You need to clear the snow from your shoes as well as from the windscreen (Getty)

Anders Nilsson from GoCompare previously told Mirror Money: "There is no UK law (that I’m aware of) stating what you can or cannot wear on your feet when driving.

"However, it is illegal to not be able to operate a vehicle safely, so if you can’t drive with certain footwear on, then you really should not do it.

"If you are in an accident, and the police or your insurer finds that your footwear was unequivocally to blame, then you could conceivably find yourself in a spot of bother.

"So, on balance, don’t risk it – for driving, wear a pair of comfortable, secure-fitting shoes with good grip. Keep them in the boot if you want to wear something else outside of the car."

The RAC's guidelines for appropriate footwear say the sole should be no thicker than 10mm and this should not be too thin or soft.

Shoes should not only have enough grip to stop your foot slipping from a pedal, but also not be so heavy they restrict you from making quick movements.

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Paul Speed