Right and left-hand traffic
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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Right and left-hand traffic refers to the basic rule determining which side of the road vehicles may drive on. Some countries have vehicles pass on the right (right-hand traffic), others on the left (left-hand traffic). This rule affects the position of the steering mechanism in vehicles, how intersections are designed, and how overtaking and stopping are carried out.
In general, countries using right-hand traffic outnumber those using left-hand traffic, measured by both the number of countries and the total length of roads. Left-hand traffic countries include many nations with historical ties to the British Empire, such as India, Japan, Australia, Kenya, and countries unlike most of continental Europe, which largely uses right-hand traffic.
How the system works
The direction of traffic determines other related practices. In right-hand traffic countries, the driver typically sits on the left side of the vehicle to see oncoming traffic clearly when overtaking. Similarly, vehicles entering a roundabout turn counterclockwise; in left-hand traffic countries, this is reversed.
Historical origins
The difference stems from older customs of travel and movement, before motor vehicles began. In the 19th and 20th centuries, governments formalized these rules, often following the practices of countries with which they had colonial or commercial ties. For this reason, many borders across continents show shifts in traffic direction.
Changes to the system
Some countries have changed their system, which required updating road signs, intersections, bus stops, and public transport vehicles. Such changes typically occur on a single planned day, with vehicles stopped for hours. Sweden's 1967 switch from left to right-hand traffic is a well-known example requiring extensive planning.
Effect on the vehicle market
The used vehicle market is heavily dependent on the traffic system. A vehicle with a steering wheel on the right side is not suitable for right-hand traffic countries and is designed for left-hand traffic countries. Some governments restrict or ban the importation of vehicles with incorrectly positioned steering wheels, citing road safety.