Is it illegal to drive barefoot? Here's what Missouri law says

As you look down at your sand-covered feet after a long, hot day at the beach, you might be tempted to forgo putting your shoes back on and instead drive back home barefoot.

But is it legal? And, if so, is it safe?

Here's a rundown of how the law treats shoeless drivers in Missouri.

State law on driving without shoes

There is no Missouri state law requiring a driver to wear footwear of any kind while operating a motor vehicle.

Missouri's driver guide and commercial driver license manual don't mention footwear, either. However, while it's not mandatory, the state's motorcycle operator manual does recommend wearing protective clothing on a motorcycle, including boots or shoes that are "high and sturdy enough to cover your ankles and give them support."

What about the rest of the US?

Barefoot driving is legal in all 50 states, with the one slight exception being Alabama where footwear is required on motorcycles.

This was confirmed back in 1994 when a man named Jason Heimbaugh wrote to every state's DMV to make sure the practice was indeed legal.

Is it safe, though?

The question of whether driving barefoot is safe isn't so cut and dry.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, driving barefoot might be a safer option compared to driving with heeled shoes on, as they can reduce pedal feel for the driver. Thin flip-flops might also be a worse alternative, as they can bend up under the pedal, or cause your foot to slide off or twist in them while driving.

With that being said, driving barefoot can also be risky. According to Speeding Ticket KC, a Kansas City, Missouri, traffic law firm, barefoot driving can reduce your grip or control on the pedals, and might lead to a foot injury if you need to stop suddenly or have an accident.

And, although driving barefoot isn't illegal, the law firm points out it can still play a role if you get into an accident or receive a citation. For instance, an officer or insurance adjuster might claim your lack of footwear contributed to reckless or careless driving, and the matter could even be brought up in court or during an insurance review.

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Is it illegal to drive barefoot in Missouri? What to know about law