Almost everyone has noticed it: an abandoned and isolated shoe lies on the highway. But how does it get there, and why aren’t there always pairs?
Many people have already asked themselves the same question: why do we often see isolated shoes on the highway? A question to which few seem to have a satisfactory answer. Among the most frequently given hypotheses, uA common explanation is accidental loss. Shoes may be thrown from moving vehicles, especially when they are poorly stored or placed precariously, such as in the back of a van or on a luggage rack. Road accidents may also cause personal items, including shoes, to be scattered on the roadway. Finally, some people who deliberately discard their old shoes by throwing them from their vehicles, considering the motorway to be a dumping ground, may also be responsible for this curious phenomenon of abandoned shoes.
But none of these explanations seem to be entirely valid. So the Swiss newspaper ZüriToday investigated. According to them, the answer is simple. These shoes belong to truck drivers who often change their shoes during a break. “They then forget their shoes on the running board and when they set off again, the wind blows them onto the road – one at a time.” The Zurich Cantonal Buildings Department confirmed this theory from the truck drivers to the newspaper. Thomas Maag, the spokesman, said: “After long hours of driving, they like to change into more comfortable shoes before a break or at night.” They then leave their other shoes on the running board of the truck to air them out and forget about them.
In France, throwing trash on the highway is strictly prohibited. It is an offense that is not only dangerous for road users, but also has a negative impact on the environment. When a person is caught throwing trash from their vehicle on a highway, they are exposed to heavy penalties. Indeed, according to the Environmental Code, this offense can result in a fine of up to 1,500 euros. In the event of a repeat offense or if the trash thrown causes an accident, the penalties can be even more severe. In addition, the authorities encourage witnesses to report this irresponsible behavior.
There is about one tonne of waste dumped per kilometre of national road each year, a high figure that has hardly changed in recent years.