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Tuesday 22nd January 2013

“Give wrong footwear the boot,” warns GEM

GEM Motoring Assist is urging motorists to ensure they wear the right footwear when driving in wintry weather conditions.

GEM recommends that drivers should forget fashion and keep a suitable pair of shoes for driving in the car, claiming that it could make a real difference when it comes to road safety.

David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, said: “We know that fashion dictates which winter boots are popular this season, however, many of them don’t offer enough grip and could cause your foot to slip off or in between the peddles when driving. This could cause a minor, or more serious, accident if control of your car is lost.

“Always keep a sturdy pair of shoes in your vehicle for driving, ideally ones that can be fastened securely or laced up, and with a good grip on the sole. Correct footwear makes the driving task in hand a lot less hazardous.

“Not only must you be comfortable while driving, you must also make sure your movement is never restricted or impaired. If your boots or shoes don’t let you move freely, switch to a pair that allows you complete control over your driving, and your vehicle, at all times.”

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Comment I have always thought about what footwear (in terms of grip and width) I use before driving as that alone can make a significant difference. Some vehicles' pedals are grouped far closer together than others.
Phil, Kent

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Comment Excellent advice - it would never have occurred to me. Now - do I sit in the seat with a wheel thing in front, or on the other side?
Idris Francis Fight Back With Facts Petersfield

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3 people agree

4 people disagree

Comment This must be the car driver's equivilant to thick motorcycle gloves allowing little feel or sensitivety for the pedals. Interestingly enough the majority of long distance records achieved on one tank of petrol have been performed in bare feet, supporting David's concerns regarding incorrect foot wear for driving. Do the ladies out there still have shoes for driving?
Gareth, Surrey

Agree | Disagree

2 people agree

“Give wrong footwear the boot,” warns GEM

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Tuesday 22nd January 2013 “Give wrong footwear the boot,” warns GEM 3 readers have commented on this story GEM Motoring Assist is urging motorists to ensure they wear the right footwear when driving in wintry weather conditions. GEM recommends that drivers should forget fashion and keep a suitable pair of shoes for driving in the car, claiming that it could make a real difference when it comes to road safety. David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, said: “We know that fashion dictates which winter boots are popular this season, however, many of them don’t offer enough grip and could cause your foot to slip off or in between the peddles when driving. This could cause a minor, or more serious, accident if control of your car is lost. “Always keep a sturdy pair of shoes in your vehicle for driving, ideally ones that can be fastened securely or laced up, and with a good grip on the sole. Correct footwear makes the driving task in hand a lot less hazardous. “Not only must you be comfortable while driving, you must also make sure your movement is never restricted or impaired. If your boots or shoes don’t let you move freely, switch to a pair that allows you complete control over your driving, and your vehicle, at all times.” Comments: Report a reader comment Click here to report a comment you consider to be offensive or inappropriate. I have always thought about what footwear (in terms of grip and width) I use before driving as that alone can make a significant difference. Some vehicles' pedals are grouped far closer together than others. Phil, Kent Agree \| Disagree Excellent advice - it would never have occurred to me. Now - do I sit in the seat with a wheel thing in front, or on the other side? Idris Francis Fight Back With Facts Petersfield Agree \| Disagree 3 people agree 4 people disagree This must be the car driver's equivilant to thick motorcycle gloves allowing little feel or sensitivety for the pedals. Interestingly enough the majority of long distance records achieved on one tank of petrol have been performed in bare feet, supporting David's concerns regarding incorrect foot wear for driving. Do the ladies out there still have shoes for driving? Gareth, Surrey Agree \| Disagree 2 people agree What's your view - comment on this story: I confirm that I have read and agree to abide by the house rules relating to comments posted on this website. Your comment: Your name and location: Your email: Captcha [What is this?]	Wednesday 10th April 2013 - Members' area - Road Safety: a guide for local councillors in England Wednesday 13th March 2013 - Members' area - SCP Diamond Jubilee artwork added. Wednesday 13th March 2013 - Footprints: a national photography competition to help make pedestrians safer Monday 11th February 2013 - Vacancies - new job added Thursday 7th February 2013 - Directory - Fresco Interactives added. Thursday 7th February 2013 - Members' area - National Road safety Committee meeting minutes added. Click here to submit a new story or call Sally Bartrum on 01379 650112. Click here to register for our weekly news update service.