Driving in Australia is a topic of interest for those planning to visit or move to the country. One of the most notable differences when it comes to driving in Australia is that people drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a major adjustment for drivers who are used to driving on the right-hand side of the road in their home country.
Australia’s road network is extensive, covering urban and rural areas, and driving is an essential part of daily life. Therefore, understanding how to drive on the left-hand side of the road is critical for anyone planning to drive in the country. In this article, we will explore left-side driving in Australia, how to adjust to it, and some of the road rules and regulations to keep in mind while driving on Australian roads.
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Left-side Driving in Australia
Left-side driving is the practice of driving on the left-hand side of the road, where the driver’s seat is on the vehicle’s right-hand side. This is the norm in Australia, and as mentioned earlier, it has its roots in the country’s colonial past.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the British Empire expanded its colonial territories, and it brought with it its customs and practices, including the tradition of left-side driving. Australia, which was a British colony, inherited this practice and maintained it even after gaining independence in 1901.
The reason for left-side driving in Australia and other British colonies is said to be related to horse-drawn vehicles. In the past, people would ride on horseback, and the vast majority of people were right-handed. Therefore, it made sense for them to sit on the horse’s left side and keep their right hand free to manage the reins. This practice carried over to the introduction of carriages and, eventually, motor vehicles.
Aside from Australia, other countries that drive on the left-hand side of the road include the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Thailand, and several others. These countries also inherited the practice from their British colonial past or were influenced by countries that drove on the left, such as Japan.
Can you Adjust to Left-side Driving in Australia?
Adjusting to left-side driving in Australia can be challenging for drivers who are used to driving on the right-hand side of the road. The differences in driving can be significant and can take some time to get used to.
One of the significant differences in left-side driving is that the driver’s seat is on the right-hand side of the vehicle, and the gear shift and handbrake are on the left side. This can take some time to get used to, especially when changing gears and using the handbrake.
Another significant difference is that roundabouts and intersections work differently in left-side driving countries. In Australia, drivers give way to their right at intersections and roundabouts. This is the opposite of what drivers are used to in right-side driving countries, where they give way to their left.
To adjust to left-side driving in Australia, there are several tips that drivers can follow. Firstly, it is important to take time to get used to the driving conditions and to drive at a slower speed until you feel comfortable. Secondly, practicing in a less busy area can be helpful before driving on busier roads. Thirdly, having a passenger familiar with left-side driving can be useful to guide you until you feel more confident.
Common mistakes made by drivers new to left-side driving in Australia include forgetting which side of the road to drive on, especially when turning onto a new road, and accidentally driving on the wrong side of the road, especially in areas with little traffic.
Road Rules and Regulations in Australia
- Speed Limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced in Australia, and drivers must always abide by them. The speed limit varies depending on the type of road, with urban areas usually having a speed limit of 50km/h and highways having a limit of 100-110km/h.
- Seat Belt Laws: All occupants of a vehicle in Australia must wear a seatbelt. Children must be secured in an appropriate car seat or booster seat.
- Blood Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Australia is 0.05%. Drivers caught driving under the influence of alcohol will face severe penalties, including fines and the suspension of their license.
- Mobile Phone Usage: Using a mobile phone while driving in Australia is illegal, including texting or making calls.
There are some differences between road rules and regulations in Australia and other countries. For example, in Australia, drivers give way to their right at intersections and roundabouts, which is the opposite of what drivers are used to in right-side driving countries. Additionally, in Australia, drivers are required to keep their headlights on at all times, even during the day, while this is not required in many other countries.
Breaking road rules in Australia can lead to severe fines and penalties. The exact amount of the fine or penalty depends on the offense committed. For example, using a mobile phone while driving can result in a fine of up to $500 AUD while speeding fines can range from $200 AUD to over $1,000 AUD, depending on the severity of the offense.
Driving on Australian Roads
Driving on Australian roads can be an enjoyable experience, with scenic routes and diverse landscapes. However, it is essential to be aware of the driving conditions, especially when driving in rural and remote areas.
The driving conditions on Australian roads can vary significantly depending on the location and time of year. For example, roads can be narrow, unpaved, and unmarked in rural and remote areas, making them more challenging to navigate. Road conditions can change quickly in some areas due to weather conditions such as flooding or bushfires.
Tips for driving in rural and remote areas include planning your route in advance, ensuring you have enough fuel and water for the journey, and checking road conditions before departing. It is also important to be aware of wildlife and livestock on the road, especially at night when they are more active.
Driving in major cities and regional areas can also have its differences. In major cities, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be a challenge, while in regional areas, roads can be less congested, and parking can be easier to find. However, in regional areas, it is important to be aware of local road conditions and potential hazards, such as wildlife or unsealed roads.
Some tips for driving in major cities include avoiding peak-hour traffic, using public transport where possible, and using a GPS or navigation app to avoid getting lost. In regional areas, it can be helpful to have a paper map as mobile phone coverage can be limited.
So, Do Australians drive on the left or right side of the road?
In conclusion, left-side driving is the norm in Australia, and it is essential for drivers to understand the rules and regulations and adjust accordingly. Driving in rural and remote areas can present challenges, and it is vital to be prepared and aware of local road conditions and potential hazards.
For drivers new to left-side driving in Australia, it is important to take the time to adjust and practice driving in a safe and controlled environment. Learning the differences in driving and being aware of common mistakes can also help new drivers adjust more quickly.
In summary, whether you are a new driver or an experienced one, understanding the rules and regulations and being aware of the driving conditions on Australian roads is crucial for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Want to know why Australia is called Oceania? Read it here.
