has no laws deeming barefoot driving illegal. However, if footwear (or the lack of it) contributes to an accident, you could be charged with civil fines.

You’ve heard it before: “bring an extra pair of shoes—barefoot driving is illegal!” And while it never hurts to be prepared, know that barefoot driving laws are a myth. Barefoot driving is legal in 50 states—and better yet, this has always been the case.

Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s recommended. Driving barefoot has its risks, including being penalized with tickets if footwear causes an accident. Worry not, though, barefoot driver.

The

car insurance

super app

Jerry

has a complete guide to barefoot driving in every state. Ready to learn about barefoot driving in South Carolina? Let’s go.

"I’m earning

awesome rewards

every week, just for driving safe!”

Is it illegal to drive barefoot in South Carolina?

South Carolina has no laws that make barefoot driving illegal. The state does, however, have a healthy recommendation to drive the way you feel most comfortable.

In 1994, Jason Heimbaugh wrote to every state DMV office. His goal was to prove once and for all that laws against barefoot driving were a myth. To the delight of barefoot drivers everywhere, Jason found that it is legal in every state to drive without shoes.

The story doesn’t end there. While it’s legal to drive barefoot in South Carolina, you can still be penalized if the lack of shoes causes an accident. Penalties could manifest as civil fees or a reckless driving charge—giving drivers plenty of reasons to choose their footwear carefully.

MORE:

Title Transfer in South Carolina

Make safe driving pay

Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.

Start earning now

Is it safe to drive barefoot?

While barefoot driving is entirely legal, it may not be the safest practice for every driver. A lack of shoes can decrease the driver's ability to control a vehicle because of these reasons:

Your braking force is reduced with bare feet

The traction between your foot and pedal is reduced

Your focus is decreased

Your risk for injury in an accident is increased

To avoid serious injuries or penalties, always drive the way you find most comfortable. Sure—barefoot driving isn’t the safest choice out there, but it may beat driving in high heels or flip-flops. The conditions around you can play a role in your footwear choices, too.

Key takeaway When getting behind the wheel, keep in mind the impact footwear can have on your driving. Barefoot driving isn’t widely regarded as safe, but it can’t hurt to keep your options open when the situation calls for it.

MORE:

South Carolina Electric Vehicle Incentives

How to save money on car insurance in South Carolina

It can be hard to chase down the best

car insurance

deals no matter what your driving preferences are. Don’t worry,

Jerry

can find you the best coverage without the usual hassles.

In less than 45 seconds of downloading the app, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. You can then choose a competitive quote from the top insurance companies, and Jerry takes care of the rest.

You’ll get support in locking down your new policy and even canceling your old one. No long forms. No calling around. No hard work. Just savings.

The best part? Jerry users report an annual average savings of $887.

“I moved states recently and my old provider didn’t cover me anymore, so I tried using
Jerry
. They handled everything from fetching the quotes to purchasing the new policy. Now I save $30 a month with Progressive!” —Kay J.