The transportation domain has seen tremendous changes; from using a bullock cart to using cars, we have covered a long path of development and there is still more to go. India is the most populous country in the world and the seventh largest country in terms of land which directly portrays its extensive road network used by billions of people to reach their respective destinations.

In passing years, India has witnessed innumerable road accidents and fatalities as the number of vehicles on the road is increasing which directed the government’s attention towards finding ways to minimise the count of accidents and saving people’s lives. Among different issues related to rash driving and measures to eradicate it, the use of footwear, specifically slippers also came into the limelight.

Read More: How To Settle Traffic Challan At Lok Adalat Hassle-Free? Here Is A Guide!

Legal Perspective On The Use Of Slippers While Driving

In India, the Motor Vehicles Act, of 1988 purviews the road safety and traffic regulations wherein each term is laid out in detail and clear language. Concerning the act, there is no special mention of using a specific type of footwear like slippers while riding or driving. There are some Western countries where the type of footwear is mentioned but Indian traffic laws aren’t that specific about this issue.

However, using especially open-toe or oversized slippers can potentially create disturbance for the driver and may lead to accidents because slippers are prone to slipping off of a driver’s foot or getting stuck under pedals, and might lead to delayed reactions. This surely has come to the attention of road safety experts and they are working on designing stricter measures for the same.

Read More: What Is Lok Adalat And How Can It Save Your Money?

What Is The Minister’s Opinion?

Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India has recently addressed this issue wherein in one of his statements he emphasised the importance of wearing appropriate footwear to ensure controlled driving. He cleared out that though the law doesn’t say anything about not using slippers while driving, people should avoid wearing slippers anyway and instead wear shoes for better grip and control for a safe drive/ride for themselves and others as well.

He shifted attention toward the need for drivers to be more cautious, aware, and mindful about their surroundings while driving to avoid any mishappenings. He also hinted towards the possibility of introducing rules or modifications regarding the use of proper footwear while driving.

Read More: The Future Of Toll Payments: Insights On The New FASTag Rules

Conclusion

The use of slippers while driving seems like a minor issue but when one looks at the bigger picture, it is also a contributing factor that increases the risk of having unfortunate incidents on the road. The citizens must understand the importance of wearing the right footwear and avoiding the use of slippers while driving as much as possible for their safety as well as the safety of others.

Important Links

Official website: https://morth.nic.in/

Contact Information: https://morth.nic.in/who-is-who

Public Grievances: https://morth.nic.in/public-grievances