Is Driving Barefoot Illegal in Louisiana?

There are no laws prohibiting driving barefoot in Louisiana—despite what you may have heard.
Written by Sarah Williams
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Despite persistent myths, it is not illegal to drive barefoot in
Louisiana
. There are, however, safety risks that come with driving without the proper footwear. 
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Is it illegal to drive barefoot in Louisiana?

No—driving barefoot is perfectly legal in Louisiana! So, where did we get the idea that it isn’t? 
Laws against driving barefoot have long been an urban myth. That’s why a man named Jason Heimbaugh sought to set the record straight during the summer of 1994. Jason wrote to a DMV in every state (and Washington, D.C.) to ask whether or not driving barefoot was legal in each jurisdiction. 
Gradually, the responses poured in—each a resounding yes. It’s legal to drive barefoot in Louisiana and everywhere else, and it always has been. But that doesn’t make it wise…

Is it safe to drive barefoot?

While it may not be illegal, driving barefoot isn’t the safest option. Most states recommend using proper footwear while driving, as driving barefoot can decrease a driver’s control over the vehicle
Barefoot driving can: 
  • Reduce your braking force
  • Diminish traction compared to wearing shoes, especially when your feet are wet
  • Lead to
    distracted driving
    for some drivers
  • Lead to a higher chance of seriously injuring your feet in the case of an accident
That being said, there are worse choices than going barefoot. If you’re wearing high heels or flip-flops, you’re better off just going shoeless—your foot could get lodged under the pedal or slip off of it. Neither is optimal. 
Ultimately, a closed-toe shoe with good traction is your safest option. 
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