Yes, driving barefoot is legal in Minnesota, as state statutes do not explicitly prohibit it. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) has not issued rules banning barefoot driving, aligning with the state’s emphasis on driver control rather than footwear. However, drivers remain liable for accidents if barefoot operation impairs control, per Minnesota Statutes §169.13, Subd. 1.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Minnesota
- No Explicit Ban: Minnesota lacks statutory or administrative rules criminalizing barefoot driving, unlike some states with specific footwear mandates.
- Negligence Liability: Under §169.13, drivers must maintain full control of vehicles; barefoot operation could establish negligence if it contributes to a crash, per case law (e.g., State v. Vohnoutka, 2018).
- Local Enforcement Discretion: While state troopers rarely cite barefoot drivers, municipal police may issue citations under reckless driving (§169.13) if footwear impairs pedal operation.
Minnesota’s 2026 DPS rulemaking agenda includes no proposed barefoot driving restrictions, reflecting current enforcement priorities. However, drivers should consider practical risks: slippery pedals or reduced force may violate the “reasonable control” standard. Insurance adjusters may scrutinize barefoot-related accidents, potentially affecting liability assessments. Always prioritize footwear that ensures unimpeded pedal operation to mitigate legal exposure.