Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Austrian traffic law, but it may violate general safety regulations if it impedes control of the vehicle. The Straßenverkehrsordnung (StVO) §7(1) mandates that drivers must maintain full control of their vehicle at all times, creating potential liability if barefoot operation contributes to an accident.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Austria
- Control Requirement: §7(1) StVO demands drivers exercise “due care,” which could be interpreted as requiring proper footwear if bare feet compromise pedal operation.
- Insurance Implications: The Allgemeine Bedingungen für die Kraftfahrtversicherung (AKB) may deny claims if barefoot driving is deemed negligent under §1302 ABGB (negligence standards).
- Local Enforcement: Municipal authorities in Vienna and Salzburg have issued advisories discouraging barefoot driving, though no statewide ban exists.
Recent 2026 amendments to the Führerscheingesetz (FSG) emphasize driver fitness, with medical evaluations now considering footwear as part of operational capability. While no direct prohibition exists, courts have ruled barefoot drivers liable in cases where pedal misapplication caused accidents. The Kuratorium für Verkehrssicherheit (KfV) recommends footwear to mitigate liability risks.