No, it is not illegal to drive barefoot in Massachusetts. There is no law in Massachusetts—or in any other U.S. state—that prohibits driving a vehicle without shoes.
This common belief is an urban legend, and Massachusetts’ general laws do not require drivers to wear footwear while operating a motor vehicle.
However, safety experts and legal professionals caution that driving barefoot can be risky. Bare feet may lack the traction that shoes provide, especially if your feet are wet or sandy, increasing the chance of slipping off the pedals and causing an accident.
If driving barefoot is determined to have contributed to a crash, it could be cited as a factor in reckless or negligent driving, potentially leading to civil or even criminal liability.
- Driving barefoot is legal in Massachusetts.
- There is no statute requiring footwear while driving.
- If barefoot driving leads to an accident, it could be considered evidence of careless or reckless driving.
- Sensible, secure footwear is recommended for safety.
So, while you can legally drive barefoot in Massachusetts, consider the safety implications before doing so.
Sources
- https://www.boston-injury-lawyer-blog.com/2022/09/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot/
- https://www.sweeneymerrigan.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-drive-barefoot-in-massachusetts/
- http://tomkileylaw.com/driving-barefoot-in-massachusetts/
- https://expresslegalfunding.com/is-illegal-drive-barefoot/
- https://wbsm.com/massachusetts-rhode-island-driving-barefoot/