There is often a misconception associated with summer footwear, including high heels or flip-flops. Many believe that it is illegal to drive in flip-flops, while others feel that it is a safety concern. Citizens must research the law for themselves instead of listening to what others have to say.
The legal team at Tom Fowler Law has a deep understanding of personal injury law and the local rules in Des Moines, Iowa. They have extensive experience in guiding the injured victims and helping them get the compensation they deserve.
Those who have suffered injuries in Des Moines, Iowa, should contact auto accident lawyers at Tom Fowler Law to discuss their personal injury case and learn more about their rights.
Is It Illegal to Drive with Flip-flops in Des Moines, Iowa?
Wearing flip-flops while driving a vehicle is legal in all 50 states, including Iowa. There is no law in the state that makes driving while wearing flip-flops illegal.
Although wearing flip-flops before getting behind the wheel is completely legal in Iowa, that doesn't mean that it's recommended. Driving barefoot or with flip-flops may result in a distraction, which can increase the risk of a car accident.
Is Distracted Driving a Cause for Concern?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 3,100 people died and approximately 424,000 were injured due to distracted driving in the United States in 2020.
Distracted driving is a cause for concern, as it could lead to serious injuries, resulting in hefty medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other types of damages.
It's essential for drivers to follow the traffic laws and choose footwear that they're most comfortable driving in to reduce the risk of accidents.
Is It More Dangerous to Drive in Flip-flops Than Driving Barefoot?
Some believe that driving in flip-flops is more dangerous than operating a motor vehicle barefoot, while others may have differing opinions. As of now, there haven't been any studies with conclusive evidence that point to either one being more deadly than the other.
At the end of the day, it's all about driving comfortably. If a driver feels that they're more comfortable operating a motor vehicle in flip flops rather than shoes, they may choose to do so.
However, if a driver prefers to drive barefoot, it's their choice. It's important to note that although there are no rules against the type of footwear allowed while driving, it could lead to safety concerns.
Less experienced drivers should avoid wearing flip-flops, as it could result in a distraction and may even increase the risk of an accident. The sandal's strap could get caught in the accelerator pedal, preventing the driver from braking when they need to.
Wearing flip-flops could also lead to distracted driving. The sandal's strap getting stuck in the brake pedal could cause a distraction, forcing the driver to take their eyes off the road.
Drivers might end up swerving or changing lanes, which could put other road users at risk of a car accident. Driving in flip-flops or high heels can prove to be more distracting than driving barefoot.
However, it's not safe to drive barefoot, which is why it's recommended to always have a pair of sneakers or good driving shoes in the car for the drivers to change into when needed.
Reasons Why Drivers Should Avoid Driving in Flip-flops or Barefoot
Besides the risk of distracted driving, drivers should avoid driving in flip-flops or barefoot because of the following reasons:
If a driver prefers to wear flip-flops while driving, it could increase the risk of foot injuries in the event of a crash, as this type of footwear offers minimal protection.
Drivers who drive barefoot risk getting serious injuries from broken glass, auto parts, or other sharp objects in the event of a car accident.
What Are the Consequences of Driving Barefoot or with Flip-flops in Des Moines, Iowa?
Drivers can drive barefoot or wear flip-flops before getting behind the wheel in Iowa, as there are no penalties prescribed in the law since it is completely legal to do so.
Police officers cannot penalize a driver for their choice of footwear as long as they don't crash or commit an infraction while on the road.
However, it's important to remember that distracted driving is against the law, and it could lead to severe consequences. If a police officer has a reason to believe that a driver is distracted while driving due to their choice of footwear, they can pull them over and issue a citation.
In certain circumstances, a driver may not only have to pay a hefty fine but also have their license revoked.
Are There Any Legal Repercussions of Driving Barefoot or with Flip-flops in Des Moines, Iowa?
As mentioned earlier, driving in flip-flops, high heels, or barefoot is completely legal in Iowa. However, drivers may be responsible for the damages if their choice of footwear results in distracted driving car accidents.
Under the personal injury law in Iowa, drivers must adhere to traffic laws and practice defensive driving to ensure their safety and the safety of the other road users. They must have their hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road at all times.
Although driving in flip-flops or other footwear is perfectly legal, it could land the negligent party in hot waters. Adjusting the footwear while driving is a form of distracted or reckless driving, which can lead to civil liability in case of an accident.
Injured victims may be able to pursue compensation by filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the negligent party's insurance company to recover the damages.
An Injured Victim Should Discuss Their Case with an Experienced Attorney at Tom Fowler Law!
Driving while wearing flip-flops is not against the traffic laws in Iowa. However, it can have financial and legal repercussions in case of distracted driving. Contact Tom Fowler Law for more questions like is it illegal to eat and drive?
There is also the possibility of the insurance company denying claims and preventing the injured driver from making any recoveries.
Those who have suffered injuries due to another's distracted driving in Des Moines, Iowa, should call to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney at Tom Fowler. They can help protect the injured victim's rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.
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