Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Italian traffic laws, but it may violate safety regulations if deemed to impair control of the vehicle. The Codice della Strada (Road Code) mandates that drivers maintain full control of their vehicle at all times, leaving room for interpretation if barefoot driving is deemed unsafe.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Italy
- Article 173 of the Codice della Strada requires drivers to ensure their physical condition does not compromise vehicle control. Barefoot driving could be challenged under this provision if an officer deems it unsafe.
- Local traffic authorities (e.g., Polizia Stradale) may issue fines (€42–€173) if barefoot driving is judged to impair pedal operation or reaction time, per Decreto Legislativo 285/1992.
- Insurance implications may arise if an accident occurs while driving barefoot, as insurers could argue negligence under Codice Civile Article 2054*, potentially voiding coverage.
Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize electronic monitoring of driver behavior, though barefoot driving remains unaddressed in updated directives. Courts have historically upheld fines only when barefoot driving directly contributes to an incident.