With the weather so sweltering, who could blame people for wanting to stick to wearing only flip flops on their feet?
Drivers, however, should consider their footwear choices very carefully – otherwise it could cost them.
Flip flops may be easy to slip on for a quick journey or for parents running about with the kids during the summer holidays, but motorists have been advised it may not be a good idea.
A poll by an insurance company found that 27 per cent of drivers could be risking a penalty by ditching their proper shoes for beach shoes.
Feeling the heat? Here’s some advice on actions to take during the hot weather and ways of keeping cool @PHE @age_uk https://t.co/7OE5AKBFXi 🍦☀️#WeatherAware #heatwave #HeatwaveUK pic.twitter.com/Cs2yqMy9lR
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 24, 2019
Read more: Expert warns women off putting ice lollies in their vaginas during heatwave
A third of those surveyed also believed it is illegal to drive in loose-fitting footwear. That’s not correct.
It is perfectly legal to do so, as much as it is legal to drive in bare feet.
But Rule 97 of the Highway Code states the driver should wear “footwear and clothing which does not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner”.
Flip flops are usually not sturdy and can easily slip off, causing drivers difficulties in maintaining control of their vehicle.
Knowing how to keep cool during long periods of hot weather can help save lives: https://t.co/p6ZHQVfOqs #HottestDayOfTheYear pic.twitter.com/FcAosinisi
— NHS (@NHSuk) July 25, 2019
Read more: How hot heatwave temperatures have to get before you can leave work
The RAC also advises flip flops are not suitable for drivers.
They have said: “While light, flimsy and impractical footwear can be dangerous, so can sturdy, robust shoes, such as walking or snow boots.
“It’s important to have a good base and grip to apply pressure to the pedals, but you need a certain degree of finesse to manipulate the controls.
“If not, you could strike the brake and accelerator together, producing a heart-in mouth situation.
“Of course, this all doesn’t stop some people, plenty of motorists do drive in shoes that afford them the proper control over the car.
“You wouldn’t go for a jog in high heels or flip-flops, so why use them when you’re behind the wheel?”
Fines for careless driving could cost drivers £100 on the spot, as well as three penalty points on their licence.
However, the charge can result in a maximum fine of £5,000, up to nine penalty points and possibly a driving ban for cases taken to court.
Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think of this story.