Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is a former British colony, and like most former British colonies, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. This means that the driver's seat is typically on the right-hand side of the car. For visitors from countries where vehicles drive on the right side of the road, driving in Australia can be challenging at first. However, many people adjust quickly to driving on the opposite side and find it easier than expected.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Side of the road | Left |
| Side of the car | Right |
| Roundabouts | Clockwise |
| Indicators | On the right |
| Windscreen wipers | On the left |
| Gear stick | On the left |
| Pedals | Same position as LHD cars |
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What You'll Learn
Australia drives on the left
One tip is to hire an automatic car, so you don't need to worry about using a gear stick, as the gear shifters are typically in the same position in both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles. Additionally, it's recommended to rest after your flight before driving, as jet lag and fatigue can make the transition more challenging.
Another important consideration is that indicators and wipers are swapped compared to left-hand drive cars, which can be confusing at first. It's crucial to pay extra attention when turning left, as the left side of the car may be less visible. Overall, staying alert and taking your time are key to adapting to driving on the left in Australia.
It's worth noting that while Australia drives on the left, this doesn't apply to all former British colonies. For example, the United States of America, Latin American countries, and most European countries drive on the right.
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The steering wheel is on the right
In Australia, the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car. This is because Australia drives on the left-hand side of the road, a practice that is followed by many former British colonies. This rule was codified when the first Highway Code was written in 1936.
If you are visiting Australia and planning to drive, it is recommended that you do not drive immediately after getting off a flight due to jet lag and fatigue, which can make the transition more difficult. It is also suggested that you hire an automatic car to avoid having to use a gear stick, and to be extra careful when entering roundabouts and intersections. Indicators and windscreen wipers are also swapped compared to right-hand drive cars, so it is important to pay attention when using these functions.
When driving on the left-hand side of the road, roundabouts circulate clockwise. This can be one of the more challenging aspects of driving on the left, as it is easy to accidentally go the wrong way around. It can also be tricky to stay in your lane when first adjusting to driving on the left. However, many people find that it is easier than they expected, and it only takes a few minutes of driving to realise it is not that different.
It is important to note that in Australia, you are not allowed to turn on a red light, and the majority of speeding fines are issued through speed cameras. It is also standard practice to use your right foot for both the accelerator and brake pedals, regardless of whether the drive is on the left or right.
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Indicators and windscreen wipers are swapped
Australia is a former British colony and, as such, drives on the left side of the road. This means that the driver's seat is on the right-hand side of the car. If you are visiting Australia from a country that drives on the right, it can be a daunting experience to get behind the wheel.
One of the most challenging aspects of driving on the opposite side is the swapping of the indicators and windscreen wipers. This is because the functions are usually located in the same place on the right-hand side of the steering wheel, regardless of whether the car is left- or right-hand drive. This can lead to some humorous situations, as one person recounts of their partner's experience driving in Australia:
> "My poor bf had to endure my relentless laughter and giggles every time he turned on the windshield wipers when he meant to turn on the TURN SIGNAL."
To avoid this, it is recommended that you hire an automatic car, so you don't have to worry about using a gear stick. It is also advised that you do not drive as soon as you arrive, as jet lag and fatigue can make the transition more difficult and increase the risk of an accident.
Despite these challenges, many people find that it only takes a few minutes of driving to adjust to the new side of the road. So, while it may seem scary at first, with some patience and caution, you should be able to navigate Australia's roads safely.
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Roundabouts circulate clockwise
Australia is a country where traffic keeps to the left, and cars usually have the steering wheel on the right. This is known as left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand traffic (RHT).
Roundabouts in Australia circulate clockwise. This is because roundabouts circulate in the opposite direction to the side on which traffic drives. In this case, as Australia drives on the left, roundabouts circulate clockwise. If Australia drove on the right, its roundabouts would circulate anti-clockwise.
The same rule applies in countries that drive on the right, which is known as right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand traffic (LHT). In these countries, roundabouts circulate anti-clockwise.
Driving on the opposite side of the road than one is used to can be challenging for some people. One person who has experienced this offered the following advice: "Watch the left side of the car when turning left. You may not have a good feeling for where it is". Another suggested renting an automatic car to avoid having to worry about using a gear stick.
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Automatic cars are easier to adjust to
In Australia, cars are right-hand drive, with the steering wheel on the right-hand side of the car. This can be a big adjustment for people used to driving on the opposite side of the car and the road, especially when turning left or going around roundabouts.
If you're adjusting to driving on the opposite side of the car and the road, it may be a good idea to rent an automatic car. Automatic cars are generally considered easier to adjust to than manual cars, as they do a lot of the work for you. Here are some reasons why automatic cars are easier to adjust to:
No need to worry about gears
Automatic cars change gears for you automatically based on the speed you're travelling, so you don't have to worry about using a gear stick or clutch pedal. This means you can focus more on the road, your mirrors, speed, and other road users.
Smoother ride
Automatic gearboxes offer a seamless transition between gears, resulting in a smoother and more pleasant ride without any stuttering.
Less risk of stalling
With manual cars, there is a risk of accidentally stalling the car, especially in traffic or when driving uphill. This can be stressful for drivers, but it's not an issue with automatic cars.
Easier for town driving
Automatic cars are ideal for town driving, as you don't have to constantly shift gears in stop-and-go traffic.
Reduced leg ache
Manual cars require constantly working the clutch with your left foot, which can be uncomfortable and lead to leg aches and pains, especially in congested areas. Automatic cars eliminate this issue since they don't have a clutch pedal.
Easier to learn
Automatic cars are generally considered easier to learn to drive than manual cars. This is because you don't have to worry about gears, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of driving.
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Frequently asked questions
Cars in Australia drive on the left side of the road.
The driver's seat is on the right-hand side of the car.
Here are some tips for driving on the left side of the road in Australia:
- Get plenty of rest before driving, especially if you are jet-lagged or fatigued.
- Stay alert, especially when tired or making u-turns.
- Be cautious when entering roundabouts and intersections.
- Hire an automatic car to avoid worrying about using a gear stick.
- Remember that the wipers and indicators are swapped compared to right-side driving.
