It’s not exactly against the law to drive with high heels on in South Africa, but if you are driving, you should keep a pair of flats in your car to drive in.
The reason for this is that the shoes you wear affect your ability to drive, and heels (even if they are fantastically gorgeous), are quite possibly the worst choice you could make when it comes to driving shoes. Because we care about your safety (it’s why we make car insurance simple and hassle-free), we have put together a brief and awesome blog piece on the dangers of driving in heels.
But how do shoes impact my ability to drive?
Look at it this way: when you are driving, your ankles and feet are basically going through a little gym session and putting in the work to accelerate, brake, and use the clutch. That’s why it is important that your shoe choice allows for your feet to freely move about and control your car well.
Imagine going to the gym in heels, a pencil skirt, and a blazer. Not exactly workout attire, is it? Well, the same thinking applies to the shoes you wear when driving.
Why is it so dangerous to drive with high heels on?
There are a few reasons why – for one, driving in heels could even lead to a crash due to the wrong pedal position. In order for your feet to be in the right position, your heel needs to touch the floor.
It’s the way that all vehicles are designed. When your heel is elevated, it’s difficult to judge how much pressure you are applying to the pedals. You might not be able to brake in time or you could accelerate too quickly into the back of another car.
But wait, there’s more: your heel could also get stuck in your floor mat or even under your pedal!
How do I choose the right shoes to drive in?
The experts believe that it all comes down to the sole of the shoes you wear. Thick soles will prevent your feet from feeling your pedals and wide sole might mean you press down on 2 pedals at the same time.
You need shoes with good grip on your soles and ones that won’t slip off your feet. Flip flops are not a good idea either as these can slip off. A fab pair of sneakers with a thin sole is always a good idea.
Can I drive barefoot?
Nope. There are also risks that are linked to driving barefoot – who knew!? You should never drive barefoot as your feet might cramp or become sweaty and slip off the pedals. Plus, your heel is likely to rub on the dirt of your car mat and you can basically wave that deluxe heel peel goodbye.
So, there you have it, the reasons why you can’t drive with high heels on. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear them! Just pack a pair of spare flats (like we said) in your car and slip these on before driving, then quickly put your heels back on before stepping out of the car so that you can still look glam when you arrive.
Just remember to put your heels either on the passenger floor mat or behind you. Otherwise, leaving them at your feet could result in them moving around, getting in your way, or worse, getting stuck beneath a pedal.
And lastly, do yourself a favour and get car insurance. The last thing you want is to spend all your shoe money on dent repairs. Am I right?
Your Insurance Family,
Oneplan
