Here’s why driving in heels is dangerous

Your choice in footwear is a dealbreaker when it comes to driving. We already know that flip flops are unsuitable choices for getting behind the wheel of a car, but heels are just as dangerous.

While it is not illegal to drive in heels, the Automobile Association (AA)  warned that this shoe can affect your driving ability and may be the worst option for driving.

“When you’re driving, your feet and ankles are hard at work using the pedals to accelerate, brake, and engage and release the clutch. Therefore, it’s important that your choice of footwear gives you freedom of movement of your feet and allows you to maintain better control of the car,” says the AA.

“Besides damaging your precious shoes, driving in heels could cause a crash because achieving the correct pedal position and action requires the heel of your foot to rest on the floor. If you’re driving in heels, then your heel is elevated, and you won’t be able to judge how much pressure to apply to the pedals.”

In addition, you run the risk of getting your heel caught in the floor mat or under the pedal, which could lead to a major accident.

When choosing your driving shoes, avoid ones with thicker soles as they prevent your feet from feeling the pedals and judging the correct amount of pressure to apply. Shoes with wide soles are also not ideal, as they may cause you to accidentally press two pedals at the same time.

The ideal shoe is one with a narrower shape, good grip and a medium thickness on the soles to prevent slipping.

If you need to wear heels to an event, the best thing to do is to keep a pair of flat shoes in your car to slip on when driving. Simply change into your heels once you’ve arrived at your destination.

Importantly, driving barefoot or in flip flops are not advised either. Bare feet are more likely to cramp while driving, according to the AA.

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