Drivers risk £5,000 fine and points on their licence for breaking Highway Code footwear rules

Drivers can be hit with a £100 fine for wearing flip flops and three points on their licence, or in some cases, fines could be as high as £5,000 if caught with improper footwear.

As the weather gets warmer, popular summer footwear such as flip-flops, sliders and backless shoes can risk falling off a driver’s foot, getting trapped under the pedals.

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This may create a dangerous driving environment and could mean motorists are unable to use their brakes efficiently.

Louise Thomas, car insurance expert at Confused.com, detailed how research found that 16 per cent of drivers have had an accident or near-miss due to driving in flip flops.

She said: “While it isn't against the law to drive in certain footwear or clothes, if you get involved in an accident, you could be charged with dangerous driving.

“That's why you should always make sure your driving capability isn't impacted and that you have full control of your vehicle at all times."

Meanwhile, Paul Evans, head of Co-op Motor Insurance, explained that longer days, warmer temperatures and summer road trips all bring their own “unique set of driving challenges”.

To avoid getting caught out, drivers should ensure their knowledge of the Highway Code is fully up-to-date.

The expert added: “Some people might not be aware that on a trip to the seaside a driver who is wearing flip-flops could be stopped by the police for a variety of reasons which could lead to points or a fine.

“If the worst happens and the driver is in an accident, it could also mean their insurance won’t pay out.”

Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar, said that more drivers would be switching their footwear to more comfortable or cooler options in the summer heat.

With the weather improving and the days becoming hotter and longer, motorists will be looking to ditch trainers for flip-flops.

Meanwhile, the DVSA states that drivers should be able to remain in control of the vehicle at all times and advise them to wear suitable footwear when driving.

In some extremely serious cases, motorists could even be disqualified from driving if wearing incorrect footwear causes an accident which goes to court.

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Advice from the RAC states that drivers should avoid wearing shoes with a sole thicker than 10mm but should also not be too thin or soft.

The RAC also recommends not driving barefoot because motorists “don’t have the same braking force with bare feet as they do with shoes on”.