Driving barefoot in Maine is not illegal. There is no law in the state that prohibits operating a motor vehicle without shoes.
This misconception is common across the United States, but in fact, it is legal to drive barefoot in all 50 states.
Legal Status and Safety Considerations
While driving barefoot is legal in Maine, it’s important to consider the safety implications:
- Reduced traction: Bare feet may provide less grip on the pedals, potentially affecting control of the vehicle.
- Potential for injury: In case of an accident, bare feet are more vulnerable to injury.
- Distracted driving: If driving barefoot causes discomfort or distraction, it could lead to unsafe driving practices.
Potential Consequences
Although not explicitly illegal, driving barefoot could still have legal repercussions in certain situations:
- If being barefoot contributes to an accident, a driver could potentially be cited under Maine’s distracted driver law.
- Fines for a first-time offense under this law are $50, with repeat offenses potentially reaching up to $250.
It’s worth noting that while driving barefoot is legal, safety should always be the priority. Wearing appropriate footwear that allows for precise control of the vehicle’s pedals is generally recommended for safe driving practices.
Source
- https://shark1053.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-maine/
- https://www.maine.gov/future/sites/maine.gov.dps.msp/files/inline-files/Hands-free%20Buckslip_print.pdf
- https://www.drivesafeonline.org/traffic-school/legal-drive-barefoot/
- https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-barefoot/