Why Do UK Drivers Drive on the Left? History, Laws, Safety & Driving Tips
Driving on the left side in the United Kingdom can be confusing, especially for international visitors from countries where driving on the right is the norm. But why do UK drivers drive on the left? The UK driving rules are deeply connected to the historical and practical reasons. Today, only about 35% of countries, like India, Indonesia, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia, drive on the left side of the road. Samoa also switched to left-side driving in 2009. In places where a road crosses from a left-driving country to a right-driving one, special systems, such as traffic lights, crossover bridges, or one-way roads, are used to help drivers safely switch sides.
Why Does the UK Drive on the Left?
The reason for driving on the left side of the road in the United Kingdom is mainly linked to history, safety, and tradition.
Historical Reason
Many historians believe that people naturally preferred walking or riding on the left side of the road. This allowed them to keep their right hand free to greet others or pull out the sword for safety if needed. Archaeological findings also suggest that this was a common practice, especially in busy areas. The UK driving left side rule was officially supported in 1300 AD when Pope Boniface VIII told all pilgrims travelling to Rome to stay on the left side of the road.
Horse Mounting
In medieval England, horse riders also followed the left side. So, riding on the left side of the road made it easier and safer to get off the horse onto the roadside instead of stepping into the middle of the road where there could be traffic.
The Role of Early Laws
The practice of driving on the left-hand side of the road in the UK became more formal over time. In 1773, the British government introduced UK left hand drive to encourage people to keep to the left on bridges and busy roads. Later, in 1835, the rule was officially made law under the Highway Act of 1835. This law required all traffic in Britain to stay on the left side of the road, making it a standard rule across the country.
Safety and Practical Reasons
Driving on the left can also have safety benefits. Early cars in the UK had the driver sitting on the right side. This gives a better view of oncoming traffic and helps with overtaking safely. Driving left-hand drive in the UK also makes it easier to judge distances when driving on narrow roads, which are common in older UK cities and towns.
Resistance to change
Many European countries started driving on the right side in the 18th and 19th centuries because of Napoleon Bonaparte. However, Britain chose to keep its old tradition of driving on the left in the UK because changing the system would be difficult and costly.
Difference from Other Countries
In countries like the United States, large wagons, used for goods transportation, were driven by people sitting on the left horse, which made it easier to keep to the right side of the road.
Driving Tips for Visitors in the UK
Left-hand driving can feel different for visitors who rent a car in the United Kingdom. Following a few simple tips can help make it easier for people renting a car.
Always keep to car on the left side of the road.
Traffic moves clockwise in roundabouts. Look right before entering.
Get familiar with the road rules before driving.
Follow the speed limits and road signs.
Many UK roads are narrow, especially in rural areas, so drive carefully.
Use a GPS or phone map to avoid confusion in unfamiliar areas.
Parking zones and restrictions are common in cities and can result in fines.
Keep focus on driving, especially when adjusting to new road rules.
Always keep the driving license, rental agreement, and rental car insurance details in the car.
