Driving on the right side of the road has become the norm around the world, but did you know that there are still several countries where motorists drive on the left? This may sound weird to some of us, but in reality, it’s just a matter of road rules. In this article, we’re going to explore countries that don't follow this trend and break the mold.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are among the most notable countries that enforce left-side driving, and this can be traced back to their British colonial heritage. The switch has taken place over a century ago, but the influence of this exotic driving style still persists in these Pacific nations.

Keep in mind that driving in Australia and New Zealand may be difficult for those coming from right-side driving countries such as the U.S., Canada, and European nations. Since the steering wheel is located on the right side of the car, driving on the left requires a significant adjustment.

Advantages of Left-Side Driving in Australia and New Zealand

  • Provides for smoother traffic flow
  • Enhances safety, especially when overtaking
  • Allows for better sight lines and visibility of oncoming traffic
  • Allows for better control of the vehicle when entering roundabouts

Japan and South Korea

If you’re traveling to Japan or South Korea, be prepared to drive on the left side of the road. Both countries have opted for this style of driving to improve urban traffic flow, similar to what most British Commonwealth countries have done.

The switch in Japan was made in the late 19th century, while South Korea made the switch after being liberated from Japanese colonial rule in 194

Advantages of Left-Side Driving in Japan and South Korea

  • Enables smoother urban traffic flow and reduces congestion
  • Provides for a more efficient rail transport system
  • Allows for better access to the curb for pedestrians and bicycles
  • Enables better visibility of oncoming traffic when turning right at an intersection

United Kingdom and Ireland

The United Kingdom and Ireland are two of the most popular tourist destinations where left-side driving is mandatory. This is, again, due to their British colonial heritage, and unlike Australia and New Zealand, the switch has been enforced for over 200 years.

Driving in the UK and Ireland can be challenging, especially on narrow country roads without the luxury of pavement. However, the advantage of left-side driving is that the driver is located on the right-hand side, which means they have a clear view of the road ahead.

Advantages of Left-Side Driving in the United Kingdom and Ireland

  • Provides for a clear view of the road ahead
  • Enables better adjustment to driving larger vehicles such as coaches and buses
  • Allows for better sightlines during roundabouts and on highways
  • Reduces the chances of head-on collisions by situating the driver closer to the centerline

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving on the left may seem strange to those of us who have grown accustomed to driving on the right, but it has proven to work in several countries worldwide. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, and it's essential to adjust accordingly based on the driving rules and regulations of each country.

What do you think of left-side driving? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below!

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