Have you ever driven a car with flip - flops? If you have then you're one of those drivers that need to take extra precaution. There are rules in place to protect drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Some of these rules include no talking on mobile phones, sleeping, alcohol and playing behind the wheel.
Now experts say footwear can also kill. Stuff.co.nz says the dangers of driving in unsuitable footwear, particularly high heels, are widely known, however, many motorists may be less aware of the problems with jandals or flip flops.
Posing multiple risks to drivers' ability to use the pedals correctly and effectively, jandals - also known as thongs can easily slip under the pedals, which may lead to losing control of the car and, in turn, cause an accident according to a British road safety boss.
"Keeping an appropriate pair of shoes in the car at all times for driving is imperative, particularly during the summer months when motorists will regularly wear flip flops out and about," David Williams, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, says in a report.
"Any kind of distraction caused by the wrong shoes can easily cause a lapse in concentration, leading to a dangerous situation on the road."
Williams says flip flops offer no support around the heel and can be difficult to keep on, making them unsafe to wear when driving.
"It is also wise, should you find yourself in a breakdown situation, to have a comfortable and sturdy pair of shoes in case you need to walk to an emergency phone to call for help."
With Fiji being the hub for flip flop users I think his advice is timely for Fiji motorists.