What Countries Drive on the Left and Right?

The most fundamental rule of driving isn't about speed or signs; it's about which side of the road you occupy. While it might seem like a minor detail, the choice between Left-Hand Traffic (LHT) and Right-Hand Traffic (RHT) is a historical legacy that has shaped continents. Today, approximately 35% of the world's population still drives on the left, mostly in former British colonies, Japan, and several island nations.

The Hidden History: Why Left or Right?

The reason you drive on a specific side often dates back centuries before the first car was ever built:

• The Knight's Choice (Left): In medieval times, most people were right-handed. By riding on the left side of the road, knights ensured their sword hand was free and closest to any oncoming stranger who might be an enemy.
• The Wagoner’s Shift (Right): In the 18th century, large freight wagons pulled by several pairs of horses became common in France and the US. The driver sat on the left-rear horse to use his right hand to whip the team. To avoid collisions and see oncoming traffic better, these wagons began passing on the right.
• Napoleon’s Influence: Napoleon Bonaparte enforced right-hand driving in every country he conquered, effectively dividing Europe between "Right" (Napoleonic) and "Left" (British).

Global Distribution of Driving Sides

While the majority of the world follows the right-hand rule, the left-hand rule remains dominant in massive regions:

The Great Switch: Dagen H

Changing sides is a logistical nightmare, but it has been done. The most famous case is Sweden in 1967, known as "Dagen H" (H-Day). Overnight, the entire country switched from left to right to align with its neighbors. Despite fears of chaos, it was a massive success that even led to a temporary decrease in accidents because everyone drove much more carefully!

Chaos at the Border: The Transition

The most dangerous and fascinating part of this global divide happens at the borders. Imagine driving at 100 km/h and suddenly having to swap lanes because you've crossed into a different country. From "flipper bridges" to complex traffic light systems, engineers have had to get creative.

Curious about how this works? Don't miss our deep dive into the engineering marvels that manage traffic flow at these critical points: How they connect right-drive roads to left-drive roads at borders.

Global Guide: Which Countries Drive on the Left?

While most of the world drives on the right, 75 countries and territories keep to the left. If you are planning a trip, this categorized list will help you identify where you'll need to adapt your driving habits.

Driving on the LEFT (LHT)

Countries predominantly in Africa, Asia, and Oceania due to historical British influence or local tradition.

Driving on the RIGHT (RHT)

The majority of nations (approx. 165 countries and territories) follow Right-Hand Traffic, including:

• All of Mainland Europe (France, Spain, Germany, Italy...)
• Most of the Americas (USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina...)
• Most of Mainland Asia (China, Russia, Vietnam, Israel...)
• Most of Northern Africa (Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria...) 

Pic: http://tuningcarstory.com/why-do-some-countries-drive-on-the-left-and-others-on-the-right/

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