Flip flop smash

As the sun struggles to break through, summer living has taken another hit after 75 per cent of drivers admitted that they found driving difficult when wearing flip flops.

However in a recent survey by Norwich Union over a quarter also said that they found it difficult to drive while wearing the fair weather favourite.

Commenting on the study, Craig Martin, motor marketing manager at Norwich Union, warned: "Being in control of your car when driving is essential, especially in an emergency. However, many of us are ignoring safety advice when it comes to the shoes we wear when driving.

"Footwear such as flip-flops are dangerous as the sole can get caught under a pedal during a simple gear change, when applying the brake or even when moving the foot from clutch to brake or vice versa. The absence of ankle support can lead to the foot slipping off the pedal altogether."

Norwich Union have warned drivers not to become car crash victims of fashion, urging them to keep a suitable pair of driving shoes in the car, or risk driving up their car insurance premiums.

Drivers have also been advised to wear suitable shoes by the Driving Standards Agency, who also pointed out that driving barefoot should be avoided as it reduces braking force.