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Flip-flops on, sunglasses on, and off to the outdoor pool: On hot summer days, many drivers opt for breezy clothing and lightweight footwear. But is it allowed to drive in flip-flops—or even barefoot? There are numerous myths surrounding driving in the summer. The police explain what is actually permitted, what consequences unsuitable footwear can have, and what road users should pay special attention to in high temperatures.
So, is it allowed to drive in flip-flops?
In Germany, flip-flops or other shoes without heel straps are generally permitted for private individuals while driving. Driving barefoot is also not prohibited. However, wearing unsuitable footwear can have legal consequences in the event of an accident.
The potential consequences of wearing unsuitable footwear:
There is no legal requirement to wear sturdy footwear, according to the Westpfalz Police Headquarters. However, if an accident occurs as a result of wearing unsuitable shoes, this could lead to legal consequences regarding liability and insurance.
For reasons of traffic safety, the police recommend wearing sturdy, well-fitting shoes. These include, for example, sneakers, low-top shoes, athletic shoes, lightweight leather shoes, or flat casual shoes with a sturdy heel.
Is it allowed to drive while wearing a bikini or without a T-shirt?
In Germany, women are generally allowed to drive while wearing a bikini or swimsuit. There is no legal ban on summer clothing while driving. Light, airy clothing is the order of the day in summer temperatures. Bikinis and swim trunks are the go-to outfits at the pool. But what about when driving?
The Westpfalz Police Headquarters has the answer: In principle, women are allowed to drive in a bikini or swimsuit, and men are allowed to drive shirtless.
Hot cars
In summer temperatures, the interior of a vehicle can quickly turn into an “oven.” In this case, the police offer some tips that can make driving in the heat more bearable:
- Ventilate the vehicle before starting your trip
- Use reflective mats and sunshades
- Park in the shade whenever possible
- Check tire pressure
- Set the air conditioning to 22 to 25 degrees
- Do not leave spray cans or electronic devices in the car
- Lock the windows and doors when parking
- Do not leave valuables such as smartphones, cash, or handbags in the car.
- Sunshades on the windshield can prevent the vehicle’s interior from overheating in summer temperatures
Hot children and pets
Another important reminder from the police:
Never leave children or pets in the car. Even with the windows open, the interior can heat up to life-threatening temperatures within just a few minutes. If a child or a pet is left inside a vehicle and needs to be rescued, this can result in heavy fines!
Deutsch-Amerikanisches Bürgerbüro
German-American
Community Office
67657 Kaiserslautern
Lauterstr. 2
Phone: 0631 363-3010
Email: info@gaco-kl.de
URL: www.gaco-kl.de
Office Hours:
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thu 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
