Driving Barefoot Might Affect Your Personal Injury Case
Posted on: 10 February 2021
If it's warm out, you might find it convenient to hop into the car without any shoes on. Then, if you're involved in a car accident, the other driver might be looking for ways to blame you for any injuries you have suffered due to the accident. For example, the fact that you weren't wearing shoes may be brought up as a contributing factor in the accident.
The Legality of Driving While Barefoot
Driving while barefoot is legal in every state, but there is a persistent rumor that it is illegal. For this reason, the other driver might use the fact that you're barefoot against you in your case.
Why Barefoot Driving Is Still a Bad Idea
Cars are not designed to be driven barefoot and your feet will not provide as much surface area as your shoes. Even wearing flip flops can be a bad idea because they can fall off and can become stuck underneath your pedals. Also, the act of your flip flops falling off can be distracting.
Driving with socks on can be even worse because they can make your feet more slippery and your socks can become stuck on the pedal. If your feet are hot, you might want to take your shoes off. However, your shoes might become stuck underneath the pedals and prevent you from operating your car properly.
Reckless Driving
Depending on how you drive with your shoes off, you might be charged with reckless driving if you are involved in an accident. The other driver can use this as evidence that you were at fault for the accident. However, this is not necessarily the case and you will want to involve a personal injury attorney who will gather evidence to prove that the other driver was primarily at fault.
Comparative Negligence
In an auto accident, both you and the other party might be considered partially at fault. Then, when you are negotiating with the driver's insurance provider, you may have your personal injury settlement reduced unless you are able to prove that the fault for the accident rested almost entirely on the other driver.
Your ability to pay your medical bills rests on the settlement you receive. A personal injury law firm will gather evidence and interview witnesses to build a solid foundation for your case. They will also negotiate directly with the insurance provider and will make sure that you receive the settlement you deserve.
Contact a local personal injury lawyer to learn more.
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