I. Introduction
Have you ever wondered why some countries drive on the left and others on the right? If you’ve ever traveled to a new place, you know that adjusting to a new driving system can be a challenge. In this article, we explore the world’s driving cultures and focus on which countries drive on the right side of the road.
II. History and cultural reasons behind driving on the right
The practice of driving on the right side of the road dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans were the first to build roads that allowed for chariots to pass each other, and they established the practice of driving on the right to make it easier for them to cross paths. This system eventually spread throughout Europe, and by the 20th century, almost all countries had adopted it.
There were several cultural reasons for the spread of right-hand driving as well. One reason was the predominance of right-handedness, which made it easier for drivers to use their dominant hand for steering. Additionally, horse-drawn carriages were driven on the left side of the road to give their riders a better view of oncoming traffic, but when automobiles were invented, drivers sat on the left-hand side of the car and switched to the right side of the road to improve visibility.
III. List of countries that drive on the right
Currently, out of 195 countries around the world, approximately 163 drive on the right-hand side of the road. Some of the largest right-hand driving countries include the United States, Canada, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan. Countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia also drive on the right, despite being in the Asian continent where left-hand driving countries are more prevalent.
One of the main distinct features of right-hand driving countries is that their vehicles are configured with the steering wheels on the left-hand side, while in left-hand driving countries, the steering wheel is on the right. Countries that drive on the right typically drive on the right side of two-way roads, which allows for safer and more efficient traffic flow.
IV. Tips for traveling to countries that drive on the right
If you’re traveling to a new country with a different driving system, it’s essential to prepare yourself to avoid any unnecessary mishaps. Before your trip, research the country’s driving laws and regulations and get accustomed to the road signs. Moreover, many rental companies have vehicles with automatic transmission, so consider renting one to make the transition smoother. Also, be vigilant when crossing the street, looking to the left first before crossing, not the right.
V. The safety implications of switching from left to right
Several countries, particularly small island nations, have switched from left- to right-hand driving. Countries such as Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and Kiribati made the switch for various reasons, whether it was to align their driving systems with neighbouring countries or make it easier to import cost-effective cars from countries that drive on the right.
However, making such a transition can be a significant undertaking and can have adverse safety implications in the short term. The switch can increase the risk of car accidents and fatalities as drivers adjust to driving on the opposite side of the road. Nonetheless, with time, drivers adapt to the change and adjust in the long term to experience safer driving conditions.
VI. Unique road systems in countries with right-hand driving
One of the unique road systems in right-hand driving countries is the roundabout. In the United States and Canada, roundabouts are relatively rare. Still, in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Spain, roundabouts are prevalent and are designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion significantly.
In addition, right-hand driving countries have unique road design, such as the divergence of lanes at intersections and the use of diamond crossings, which promote safer turns. These distinct differences often take time for drivers from left-hand driving countries to get comfortable with.
VII. Countries where right-hand driving is the norm
Countries where right-hand driving is the norm vary vastly in terms of size and population. Some of the largest and most populated countries with right-hand driving include the United States, Canada, and Australia. One of the main advantages of right-hand driving is the convenience of driving into neighbouring countries as driving through a left-hand driving and right-hand driving country may mean having to change driving sides many times.
However, right-hand driving does have its disadvantages, including left-hand drive vehicles being more costly to import and the driver’s view being less of oncoming traffic when turning through complex junctions.
VIII. Cultural differences between right- and left-hand driving countries
Geopolitical, cultural, and historical reasons are why most countries drive on either the left or right side of the road. In countries where right-hand driving is the norm, the prevalent culture is that the slower vehicles drive in the right lane while faster drivers pass them on the left. In contrast, in left-hand driving countries such as the United Kingdom and India, slow traffic drives in the left lane, with the right lane reserved for overtaking.
The reasons behind these differences vary, with left-hand side driving countries having a preference for the leftside as it dates back to the use of advanced horse-drawn carriages. In contrast, right-hand side driving countries have modernised after the invention of automobiles, which involved drivers driving on the right-hand side of the car which led to a corresponding shift to right-hand side driving.
IX. Conclusion
Overall, driving on the right is the norm for the majority of countries worldwide. We have explored the history and cultural reasons behind driving on the right, listed countries that drive on the right, given tips for traveling to these countries, and highlighted unique road systems in right-hand driving countries. We have also examined the safety implications of switching from left to right, countries where right-hand driving is the norm, and finally, the substantial cultural differences between right- and left-hand driving countries.
Understanding the country’s driving culture that you’re traveling to is essential if you plan to drive, not only because of legal requirements but also for your safety and that of your passengers. Besides, embracing the differences enhances your travel experience and enables you to appreciate the unique cultural and historical contexts that make each country a special place to visit.