Driving alone can be challenging for some people, imagine driving on the “wrong” side of the road! Whether you are traveling to a country where you need to drive on the left side of the road, or if you are planning to move there, in both cases, you mustn’t freak out. Driving on the opposite side of the road is just as different to the person not coming from that country. Hence, unless you are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, and others, you will have issues with driving on the left side of the road. Since a large number of people are used to driving on the right side, it’s only logical to learn a few basics of driving on the opposite side if you are planning a visit to such a country. Here are some useful tips that would help you adjust to driving on the left side and help you save your time and nerves.
Get acquainted and adjusted to the “feeling”
First things first, the moment you pick up the car from the rental company, take your time to inspect the driver’s position until you hit the road. Get a feel for the car and don’t be nervous as everything would be unfamiliar at first glance. Grab the steering wheel, check the controls, and look at indicators, headlight controls, and other items that are also on the right side of the car, before you place the left hand onto the shift. Once you turn the key and start driving, get acquainted with the position of the right-side shift, brake, and clutch. Your right leg might start doing “the driving” automatically, but your left hand must get used to the feeling. So don’t rush no matter what.
Ask away
When you start driving, no matter how confident you might be driving on the right side, the chances of making a mistake while driving on the left are high. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you arrive in a foreign country for experts to give you a few basic lessons and show you the tricks around heavy traffic when you are driving on the left. For instance, if you are traveling to Australia you can contact the professional ABC Driving School and get 101 expert lessons on how to maneuver across the bustling Sydney in no time. The benefits of hiring driving schools are abundant, but mainly that would help you clear out the stress of driving on the left side and save you from causing any unwanted outcomes. So, there’s no shame in asking for help if you are a confined and experienced driver.
Turn to the left
Although it would be rather tricky and weird to drive on the left side, intersections can be the most challenging part there. When you first enter the car, take time to adjust and then slowly press the clutch and gas. Then, as you approach an intersection where you would need to make a turn, no matter the side, always turn to the left. No matter how experienced a driver you might be, driving on the opposite side can be dangerous, so stick to the left no matter which way you are turning and you will do good.
Know how to pass
If you think that intersections and turns are complicated, just wait til you come to the highway or motorway. Driving on the interstate road or a highway, and having to pass various lanes will be a real burden because the passing lane is right. The key to successfully passing the lanes while driving on the left side is to focus and not lose your grip. The passing lane on any road is right, so pay attention when you are on speedy roads such as on a highway, and if necessary, stick to the far left lane or the slowest lane, just in case.
Go slower on the roundabouts
Roundabouts can be your worst nightmare when you first start driving on the left. The traffic circle can be tricky even for experienced drivers, especially visitors or novice ones. The turn also goes towards the left, but in multiple lanes, you need to be in the correct lane before you make the final turn. The rules are the same as if you were driving on the right side, only you go left. However, if you get confused, just don’t stop in the roundabout but rather let another car in, slow down, and one more circle.
Minimize distraction
As you would be already relatively agitated, in order not to make any mistakes, you must avoid all potential distractions. Driving on the left side of the road, at least in the first few trials and days, requires multitasking, patience, and concentration. Therefore, don’t use your smartphone while driving, just have it mounted for the map and GPS. then tune down the radio on your first left-side driving trip and avoid eating or drinking. Focus solely on the road and always look on both sides when you stop, especially when turning right.
Driving on the left takes time, diligence, and practice. If in doubt, call experts to assist you with your first drive and stay clear-headed.
