Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department According to the calendar, and the warm weather, we have finally reached the summer season. Each year it seems, I am asked a common question. Can a person drive a vehicle with bare feet? The short answer, at least in Massachusetts, is yes. However, many other states do not allow this. It is important to check on the laws from other places if you plan to ravel and drive in this manner. Even though it is not prohibited specifically by law here in the Commonwealth, I would advise against driving this way. Should an accident or other violation occur, the driver could be liable. One potential violation is “impeded operation.” It is found under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 Section 13 and states in part, “No person, when operating a motor vehicle shall permit to be on or in the vehicle or on or about his person anything which may interfere with or impede the proper operation of the vehicle or any equipment by which the vehicle is operated or controlled…” This definition covers many situations. The key phrase here is “on or about your person.” If the lack of footwear somehow impedes the safe and proper operation of the vehicle, such as injuring your foot while moving between pedals, this can have a direct impact on your driving. It will be a significant factor should a crash occur. A violation of this law carries a $35 civil fine. It is just as important for drivers to consider the type of footwear they choose to wear while operating. Often “flip flop” style sandals can be an impediment, particularly if they are on loose. They tend to catch on pedals when your foot moves between them. Appropriate footwear should be one piece of equipment every driver uses. This small precaution could make a big impact in preventing a crash. |
This also marks the end of a very different school year for the Dudley students. We at the police department wish everyone a happy, fun, and safe summer vacation.
For those still seeking vaccination information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling 508-949-8036. Please continue moving forward with the “re-opening” of our state in a reasonable manner. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. This has been a challenging year plus for everyone. We, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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