Yes, driving barefoot is legal in Poland, as the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o Ruchu Drogowym) does not explicitly prohibit it. However, drivers must ensure their footwear does not impair control over the vehicle, aligning with Article 56(1) on safe vehicle operation. Local traffic police (Policja) may intervene if barefoot driving is deemed unsafe, though no standardized fines exist for this offense.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Poland
- Safe Vehicle Operation (Art. 56(1)): Drivers must maintain full control of the vehicle at all times. Barefoot driving is permissible only if it does not compromise pedal grip or reaction time.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: Traffic police (Policja) assess cases individually. Repeat offenders or those causing accidents may face penalties under reckless driving (Art. 86).
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Ministry of Infrastructure is reviewing footwear regulations post-2025, with potential amendments to clarify “appropriate footwear” standards.
Violations are typically addressed under broader safety statutes rather than dedicated barefoot-specific laws. Drivers should exercise caution to avoid liability in case of incidents.