Car maintenance experts Fixter say that while Uggs and other loose‑fitting winter shoes are not illegal to wear, they can interfere with pedals and reduce control of a vehicle.
Highway Code warning
The Highway Code states that “footwear and clothing should not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner.”
Experts warn that Ugg boots, Wellington boots and other wide or loose shoes can slip, jam or press multiple pedals at once, potentially leading to dangerous situations.
Driving without due care and attention can result in an on‑the‑spot £100 fine and three penalty points, or up to a £5,000 fine and nine points in more serious cases, particularly if an accident occurs.
Other autumn clothing risks
Fixter also cautions that other cold‑weather staples can affect driving safety:
- Gloves – reduce grip and steering control
- Scarves – risk obstructing vision or getting caught
- Puffer jackets – can restrict movement behind the wheel
Police may issue fines if clothing or footwear is judged to impair a driver’s ability to control their vehicle safely.
Advice for drivers
Fixter recommends keeping winter boots or bulky clothing in the car and changing into them once you’ve reached your destination, rather than driving in them.
A spokesperson said: “Wearing sufficient clothing and footwear behind the wheel is essential not only to avoid penalties but to maintain safety on the roads. Drivers risk fines, points and even invalidating their insurance if inappropriate clothing or footwear is deemed to have contributed to an incident.”
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