UPDATED: APRIL 27, 2023 | 2 MIN READ
Manual transmission vehicles always require drivers to utilize both feet while driving. It was standard for people to use the left foot for the clutch and the right foot for the accelerator and brake pedal.
Now, new cars offer automatic transmissions to improve road safety and no longer utilize the clutch pedal. The change has led more people to only drive using one foot for the gas pedal and brake.
Does it mean driving with both feet is illegal? There are varying opinions on the subject. This article explores whether going with one more both feet is legal and the pros and cons of each, so you can see which option is more suitable.
Is It Against The Law To Drive With Both Feet?
No law states you cannot drive using both of your feet. However, the safety issue while driving using both feet may be a cause for concern. Using two feet when driving a car with an automatic transmission isn’t ideal and is usually discouraged.
If You’re In an Accident
For example, traffic laws prohibit lousy driving practices in the event of an accident. Your driving habits come into play if there is an incident with your vehicle. You could be charged with reckless driving if you are using both feet.
Cons Of Driving With Both Feet
There are many disadvantages to driving with both feet. You may do damage to your car or cause injury. Many vehicle manufacturers design cars today with a dead pedals. It provides the driver with a footrest to give you more stability when you brake or accelerate your car.
Here are some significant disadvantages to driving your car using both feet.
Accidental pressing of pedals
While driving, you might have to hit your car brakes quickly. In this instance and other quickly occurring emergencies on the road, it is easy for drivers to confuse the two pedals and press both.
You could also press on the wrong pedal and cause an accident if you are using both feet. Many older adults used to manual cars have unintended acceleration from pushing the wrong pedal down. It also happens more often to new learners not accustomed to driving frequently.
Brake pad problems
Some drivers who switch from driving a manual vehicle struggle when going to an automatic transmission car. Using your left foot on the clutch pedal for years can result in pressing the brake too often.
Overheating the brakes causes them to wear out faster and need repair. You might even lose too much brake fluid and end up in an accident.
Decrease in fuel economy
Resting your foot on the brake pedal is common for drivers using two feet. But doing this action increases the vehicle’s fuel consumption. The engine struggles to increase speed when overcoming the braking, which can cause more problems and need repairs.
Getting too tired
The foot on the brake pedal (usually the left) tires more quickly when using two feet. One foot on both pedals helps to keep it from becoming tired or achy, particularly on long road trips.
Pros To Driving With Both Feet
Even though there are disadvantages to driving with two feet, there are also practical advantages. And, again, no legal laws state you can’t drive using both feet. Here are the pros for those used to manual cars who drive with both feet.
Quicker reaction times
You can respond more quickly when you use your left foot on the brake pedal and right foot on the gas pedal; you can react more rapidly.
Having both feet at the ready eliminates wasting time shifting one foot across each pedal. It is crucial to push a pedal quickly to save you from an emergency.
Driving with a standard transmission car
Driving with two feet makes the most sense in a manual transmission vehicle. You need your left foot for the clutch to use your right foot on the brake and accelerator pedals.
The stick shift can be tricky if you are unfamiliar with manual driving. Manual cars are less popular today, so new drivers are discouraged from learning to drive with both feet.
It is easier for you
Some people discover driving with two feet improves their driving performance. It may not happen often, but sometimes it’s more comfortable and makes more sense. While it can be riskier, it may be easier for you.
Racecar drivers
Racecar drivers must use two feet when driving. They are moving at high speeds and need more control over the vehicle. Racecars are also used to wearing brake pads quickly, so there isn’t a concern for too much braking.
FAQs
Is it OK to drive with both feet?
No law prohibits drivers from using two feet across the pedals. But most automatic cars eliminate the need for two-foot driving so you can be safer on the road.
Will they fail you if you drive with two feet?
Technically, you can take your driving test using two feet. There is no law against it, and it shouldn’t cause you to fail. Though many instructors may say driving with two feet isn’t a good idea.
What happens if you drive with 2 feet?
It can be beneficial to drive with two feet, using your left foot for the brake pedal and your right foot for the gas pedal. But, your feet may get tired, and you risk wearing your brake pads more quickly. You could also encounter a pedal error and get in an accident.
Do you drive with both feet or one?
Experts who train people to be safe on the road in driving school tell you to drive with one foot. Many driver’s education teachers or instructors teach you to drive this way. But, when driving a manual vehicle, it’s necessary to use two feet.
When is it illegal to drive with 2 feet?
It isn’t illegal to be a two-foot driver. You could incur tickets and offenses if found at fault in an accident due to poor driving habits. As a result, your car insurance rates may likely increase.
What is the punishment for driving with two feet?
If you are in an automotive accident and found at fault, you may receive a ticket for reckless driving. The police officer may conclude you weren’t safe or have lousy driving habits.
How many feet do you need to drive a car?
For a manual transmission car, you should use two feet to drive. You need the left foot for the clutch pedal. For an automatic car, you only need one foot to alternate between the brake and gas pedal.
Stay Safe While Driving
The consensus is driving with two feet is more dangerous for automatic cars. Manual transmission cars still require two-foot driving, but most cars made now are automatic.
Regardless of your choice in driving with one foot or two feet, the most important thing is to stay safe. Safe driving is essential, especially for new drivers. It’s up to you as a driver to understand your risks and make an informed decision.
