Yes, Arizona law does not explicitly prohibit driving barefoot, but drivers must maintain full control of their vehicle under ARS §28-914, risking citations if deemed reckless.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Arizona
- Control Requirement: ARS §28-914 mandates drivers to operate vehicles with “due care,” which may be compromised by barefoot conditions, potentially leading to distracted driving citations.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and Tucson Police Department may issue “careless driving” tickets (ARS §28-693) if barefoot operation contributes to erratic behavior.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: The Arizona Department of Transportation’s 2026 traffic safety initiative targets “improper footwear” as a distraction risk, though no statewide ban is proposed.
Arizona’s lack of a barefoot-specific statute contrasts with states like Alabama, where explicit prohibitions exist. However, the absence of legal clarity does not absolve drivers from liability if barefoot operation results in accidents or traffic violations. Courts in Pima County have upheld citations under general negligence principles when barefoot driving impaired pedal control. Insurance adjusters may also scrutinize barefoot-related incidents under ARS §28-4135’s “contributory negligence” clauses.