Driving on the Left: A Comprehensive Guide for Global Travelers
As a traveler, adapting to a new country’s driving habits can be a daunting task. In many parts of the world, drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road, which can be a challenge for those accustomed to driving on the right-hand side. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the countries where people drive on the left, provide practical tips for getting used to driving on the opposite side, and delve into the historical context behind this unusual practice.
In Which Countries Drive on the Left?
To help you prepare for your trip, let’s take a look at the countries where drivers drive on the left-hand side:
- Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, China (Hong Kong and Macau), East Timor, Indonesia, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand
- Australia and Oceania: Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk Island, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu
- Europe: Cyprus, Guernsey, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, Malta, United Kingdom
- South America: Guyana, Suriname
- Caribbean and Indian Ocean islands: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles
- Atlantic Ocean islands: Bahamas, Bermuda, Falkland Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
10 Useful Tips for Driving on the Left
Adjusting to driving on the left-hand side requires practice and patience. Here are 10 practical tips to help you get started:
- Get familiar with your vehicle: Explore your car’s controls and commands, adjusting yourself in the driver’s seat to accommodate the opposite side of what you’re used to.
- Start from places with little traffic: Practice driving in areas with minimal traffic, such as suburban or residential neighborhoods, to gradually get accustomed to the new positions of driving on the left-hand side.
- Be careful at roundabouts and intersections: Familiarize yourself with local rules and protocols for navigating roundabouts and intersections, which may be different from what you’re used to.
- Avoid overtaking: Refrain from engaging in overtaking maneuvers, even if they seem safe, as this can increase the risk of accidents.
- Have a passenger help you: Having someone with experience driving on the left-hand side accompany you can provide valuable guidance and assistance.
- Don’t get distracted: Eliminate distractions altogether, keeping your focus on the road and avoiding temptations like using your smartphone or cell phone.
- Drive along known routes or use a GPS navigator: Utilize available maps and technology to stay on track and receive real-time instructions.
- Choose a small car: Opt for a smaller vehicle that can make your approach to driving on the left-hand side more manageable.
- Remember to look right when exiting a parking lot: Double-check your surroundings, looking right before exiting a parking lot to avoid accidents.
- Always drive in the leftmost lane: Stay on the leftmost lane, even if it means driving slower, to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Curiosity: The Origins of Driving on the Left
Driving on the left-hand side has its roots in history and mechanics. In medieval times, soldiers had to proceed with their side facing the road, allowing them to quickly draw their sword using their right hand. This military usage was later mandated by Pope Boniface VIII as a true and binding rule.
As early cars were assembled, the handbrake was located on the outside of the right-hand side of the vehicle. As a result, the driver and passenger had to be on the same side, favoring the stronger hand – theoretically, the right one – and consequently shifting the driving position to the left.
Additional Tips for Drivers from Right-Hand Side Countries
If you’re traveling from a country where drivers drive on the right-hand side, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Familiarize yourself with local road signs, traffic signals, and pedestrian crossings.
- Use your mirrors regularly: Keep an eye on your rearview mirror and side mirrors to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Check your blind spots: Regularly check your blind spots to avoid accidents.
- Be patient: Adjusting to driving on the left-hand side takes time. Be patient with yourself, and don’t get frustrated if you make mistakes.
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Tips for International Drivers
If you’re an international driver, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Research local laws and regulations: Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations to avoid any fines or penalties.
- Obtain a local driver’s license: If required, obtain a local driver’s license to drive legally in the country you’re visiting.
- Consider renting a car with a GPS navigator: Many rental cars come equipped with GPS navigators that can help you navigate unfamiliar roads and stay on track.
Conclusion
Driving on the left-hand side requires practice, patience, and attention to local rules and protocols. By following these 10 practical tips and understanding the historical context behind this unusual practice, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey.
FAQs
- What are the countries where people drive on the left?
- Countries in Asia, Australia and Oceania, Europe, South America, Caribbean and Indian Ocean islands, and Atlantic Ocean islands.
- How do I get used to driving on the left-hand side?
- Start from places with little traffic, be careful at roundabouts and intersections, avoid overtaking, have a passenger help you, don’t get distracted, drive along known routes or use a GPS navigator, choose a small car, remember to look right when exiting a parking lot, and always drive in the leftmost lane.
- What are some common mistakes I should avoid while driving on the left-hand side?
- Avoid overtaking, follow local rules and protocols for navigating roundabouts and intersections, keep your focus on the road, and stay on the leftmost lane.
- Can I drive in any country where people drive on the left without getting a local driver’s license?
- It depends on the specific country and its regulations. Check with local authorities before driving to ensure you’re compliant with all laws and requirements.
- How do I handle roundabouts when driving on the left-hand side?
- Follow local rules and protocols for navigating roundabouts, which may be different from what you’re used to. Prioritize those already occupying the roundabout and maintain a slow pace.
- What should I do if I get lost or need directions while driving on the left-hand side?
- Use available maps and technology, such as GPS navigators, to stay on track and receive real-time instructions.
- Can I use my smartphone while driving on the left-hand side?
- Avoid using your smartphone or cell phone while driving altogether, keeping your focus on the road and avoiding distractions.
- Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when driving on the left-hand side in heavy traffic?
- Stay calm, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid sudden movements to reduce the risk of accidents.
- How do I handle intersections when driving on the left-hand side?
- Follow local rules and protocols for navigating intersections, which may be different from what you’re used to. Prioritize pedestrians and ensure your vehicle is properly aligned before proceeding.
- What should I do if I experience anxiety or discomfort while driving on the left-hand side?
- Take regular breaks to relax, use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, and seek guidance from a trusted friend or family member if needed.
By following these practical tips and understanding the historical context behind driving on the left-hand side, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey.
