Los Angeles, Aug 29 (IANS): Women put themselves at risk when they step into their car wearing flip flops, says a survey.

According to a poll conducted by Sheilas' Wheels, a British car insurance brand that majorly targets its insurance products to women, flip flops not only impair motorists' movement between the brake and accelerator pedals by up to 0.1 seconds, but also reduce the driver's braking force by three per cent compared to safer shoes.

The poll also found that over half of motorists drive in unsuitable footwear while one in five continue to wear shoes that they have had a near miss or accident in, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"It's worrying that so many drivers out there do not realise the impact their footwear choices can have on their safety at the wheel. Millions may think they can drive safely but may not realise the shortcomings of the flip-flop until it's too late - putting themselves, their passengers and other drivers at risk every time they get in the car,” said Jacky Brown of Sheilas' Wheels car insurance.

Also, one in four motorists have got their shoe stuck under a pedal whilst driving that can have disastrous consequences.

Top five summer footwear Brits struggle to drive in:

- Flip flops

- Bare feet

- Wedge Heels

- Espadrilles

- Sandals