Yes, driving barefoot in Rhode Island is not explicitly prohibited under state statute, as the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles (RIDMV) has not codified footwear requirements for drivers. However, the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal and local law enforcement retain discretion to cite drivers for “unsafe operation” under § 31-22-10 if barefoot driving impairs vehicle control or violates municipal ordinances. The RIDMV’s 2026 compliance review emphasizes distracted driving enforcement, which could indirectly target barefoot drivers if their footwear contributes to erratic behavior.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Rhode Island
- Unsafe Operation Statute (§ 31-22-10): Drivers may be cited if barefoot operation leads to impaired control, mirroring distracted driving penalties. Local courts assess cases individually, with prior precedent in Providence County favoring citations only for clear negligence.
- Municipal Ordinances: Cities like Providence and Warwick may impose additional restrictions via traffic ordinances, though none explicitly ban barefoot driving. Violations could result in fines up to $200 under local traffic codes.
- Insurance Implications: Rhode Island’s no-fault insurance system (§ 27-19-1 et seq.) may deny coverage for accidents linked to “unreasonable” driving conditions, including barefoot operation deemed hazardous by adjusters.