Responsible driving is a serious task. When you get behind the wheel of a car, you promise yourself and your fellow drivers to pay attention to the road and ensure the safety of everyone on or near the road.
Being distracted by portable devices or even the clothes or shoes you wear can lead to serious accidents and you could be held responsible for any damage, injury or even death that you could cause by negligent driving.
Are there any laws for what to wear while driving in Chicago?
There are no specific laws about what clothes or shoes you can wear in a car. However, in some states, driving without clothing can result in indecent exposure costs. Just because there are no laws excluding what you can and cannot wear while driving, fashion choices can still interfere with driving.
Footwear to avoid
Although it is a common misconception, barefoot driving is not illegal. However, it is not recommended as your feet could slip off the pedals, resulting in an accident. If you are involved in a barefoot accident, you could be found negligent and charged with reckless driving.
Slip-on shoes, such as sandals, slippers, or flip flops, are another shoe fashion to avoid. It is common for the shoes to slip off when switching between pedals, which can result in a crash.
Wedges, high heels or thick-soled shoes should also be avoided as they can create more distance between your foot and the pedals, giving you less control over the pressure you can apply.
Drivers should be careful when wearing heavy boots, such as work or cowboy boots, as they can cause you to apply too much pressure while driving. They could also hit more than one pedal at a time.
Alternative footwear
Just because you can’t ride with fashionable shoes doesn’t mean you can’t wear them, just wait until after the ride. One solution is to have a pair of driving shoes in your vehicle to change into before getting behind the wheel.
These don’t have to be fancy shoes, but a pair that is safe and comfortable and doesn’t press more than one pedal at a time.
Clothes to wear
It is not illegal to drive without clothes in most states, but you risk indecent exposure if someone turns you in. But that doesn’t mean you should wear more clothes than you need to.
Drivers should not wear tight-fitting clothing that could restrict their freedom of movement or prevent them from turning their head to look around the vehicle. Loose or extra clothing, such as oversized coats or jackets, should be removed before getting behind the wheel as these clothing can interfere with driving.
Finding a balance between being comfortable and safe is essential when driving.
What to wear on a motorcycle?
A common expression for motorcyclists is “dress for the slide, not for the ride”, which means that a cyclist should always wear appropriate clothing to protect them in the event of an accident.
It is common for motorcyclists to develop a road rash or head injuries if they are not properly dressed. Helmets are not required by law in Illinois, but they are highly recommended, especially if you are seeking financial compensation after a crash.
It may be tempting to look cool, but it’s better to look safe from the road ahead.
Are headphones legal?
Under Illinois law, it is illegal for any driver to wear a headset receiver, which is defined as any device other than a hearing aid worn on a person’s head that allows them to receive electronic communications.
There are exceptions, such as hearing aids or one-ear Bluetooth earphones, motorcycle helmets with intercom, and headsets worn by rescuers or construction workers.
Can I use my phone while driving?
In most cases you will not be able to use your phone. Under the distracted driving laws enacted in 2019, there are several restrictions on using a mobile device in a car. Drivers cannot read or send text messages, surf the Internet, or take photos or videos within 150 feet of the accident site.
Drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use a phone at all and drivers over the age of 18 are allowed to use the GPS function on a phone if it is mounted and hands-free.
Getting help after a car accident in Chicago
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver, please contact Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, PC at (312) 236-2900 today for a free consultation. An experienced no-win, no-fee attorney can help set up a defense and will work with you to get the best outcome after a crash.