CONFLICTING reports over whether or not driving in flip-flops is legal have finally been resolved by traffic authorities.
Experts 'recommend' not wearing flip-flops to drive because they do not protect the foot, can become wedged into the pedals or slip off, leading to a split-second's lack of control which could cause an accident.
Driving in bare feet is also ill-advised because there is no foot support.
Although not technically illegal, if a police officer considers that the driver's footwear is 'not suitable for controlling the car' adequately and 'could' pose a danger, a fine of up to €200 can be issued.
The onus would then be on the driver to prove he or she was perfectly safe, which is extremely difficult.
Motorists cannot be fined 'for driving in flip-flops', but they can be fined for 'footwear not conducive to proper control of the vehicle'.
This means the outcome is largely subjective and, with town councils scratching for cash and aware raising taxes for residents could make their political parties appear unpopular, Local Police may see 'unsuitable footwear' situations as an ideal opportunity to issue a fine and inflate the public coffers.
