No, it is not illegal to drive barefoot in Delaware. State law does not require drivers to wear shoes while operating a vehicle. This is consistent with the legal situation across the United States, where no state has a law specifically prohibiting driving without footwear.
Legal Context
No Specific Ban: Delaware’s traffic laws, including Title 21 of the Delaware Code, do not mention footwear requirements for drivers.
General Driving Laws: Drivers are required to operate vehicles safely and with due care. If driving barefoot contributes to unsafe driving or an accident, you could be cited under general laws such as reckless driving or careless driving, but not for being barefoot itself.
Safety Recommendations: Law enforcement and safety experts discourage barefoot driving due to reduced pedal control and increased risk in emergencies, but this is not a legal requirement.
Summary Table
| State | Barefoot Driving Law | Notes/Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware | Legal | No law bans barefoot driving |
You are legally allowed to drive barefoot in Delaware, but it is considered less safe than driving with proper footwear. Always prioritize safe driving practices and be aware that you could be held responsible if your choice to drive barefoot leads to unsafe driving or an accident.
Sources:
1. https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c041/sc13/index.html
2. https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c041/sc09/index.html
3. https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-barefoot/
