Although it is not prohibited, the DGT recommends not using these garments as they may affect safety
The summer heat has started early, and with it some typical behaviors behind the wheel, such as driving in flip-flops or a swimsuit, with which drivers try to cope with the high temperatures. There are typical habits and behaviors on vacation or when the heat is present that should be avoided while driving as they pose a risk and can also end in a penalty.
For example, the typical beach wardrobe of slippers and a bathing suit or bikini is not suitable for driving. With inappropriate footwear such as shoes, the sensitivity of the pedals is lost and they can get stuck and prevent them from reacting to an unforeseen event.
It is not explicitly prohibited in most European countries, but driving with them or barefoot could mean fined us as traffic cops may interpret that it reduces our freedom of movement while driving. Therefore, you should change the unsupported thongs or sandals for ergonomic footwear and fastened to the foot. If this is not the case, there may be a fine of 80 euros.
On the other hand, driving without a shirt, something 25% of motorists do, according to the Foundation of the European Motor Commission, can cause burns from the friction of the seat belt. To lower the temperature of the vehicle, it is recommended to open the doors and windows for one minute to ventilate the passenger compartment before activating the air conditioning.
Even if just for a few kilometers, crossing the vehicle’s seats poses significant risks, as it means that some occupants will go without a seatbelt or, in the case of children, without a child restraint system.
Although it is not directly prohibited, eating and drinking while driving can be a distraction. But with the high temperatures, hydration is key. A study by the University of Loughborough (UK) and the European Hydration Institute shows that a dehydrated driver makes the same mistakes as another who has drunk 8 glasses of wine. It is best to avoid this by drinking water before the start of the march and at regular stops. In addition, assistants such as the fatigue detector analyze the driver’s driving behavior and advise him to take a break if necessary.
Driving with your elbow out the window on hot days is a typical road scene to avoid. Firstly because it affects vehicle control by not having both hands on the wheel and secondly because of the risk of serious injury in a collision. Another extremely risky pose, in this case of the co-pilot, is to put your feet on the dashboard. In the event of an accident, the front airbag would not only stop fulfilling its function of restraining the occupants, but would also become a potentially dangerous element. A danger that is accompanied by a fine of 80 euros.
Finally, when you go to the beach, don’t forget your towel, sunglasses, sunscreen… and your driver’s license: no matter how little you bring, you should never forget your car papers. In most European countries, driving without a driver’s license also carries a fine.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
