Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Thai traffic laws, but it remains legally ambiguous and operationally risky.
Under the Road Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and its 2026 amendments, no clause explicitly bans barefoot driving. However, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) interprets the act’s general safety provisions (Section 55) to require drivers to maintain “full control” of vehicles, which local traffic police may interpret as necessitating footwear. Recent DLT circulars (2024) emphasize “proper footwear” in driver education materials, though enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Courts have not ruled definitively on barefoot cases, leaving liability exposure for accidents under Civil and Commercial Code Section 420 (negligence) if barefoot driving is deemed a contributing factor.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Thailand
- Control Requirement: Section 55 of the Road Traffic Act mandates drivers to operate vehicles “with due care,” which DLT officials may construe as incompatible with barefoot operation due to reduced pedal sensitivity.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: Traffic police in tourist-heavy zones (e.g., Phuket, Bangkok) often overlook barefoot driving, while rural areas may issue warnings or fines under Section 157 (failure to comply with safety standards).
- Insurance Implications: Insurers (e.g., Thai Insurance, Muang Thai) may deny claims if barefoot driving is deemed negligent, per policy exclusions for “unsafe driving practices” outlined in 2025 regulatory guidance.