Side (Road)
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Out Of
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Following Others
? Why do we drive on different sides of the road?
Historical Factors
Left-Side Driving : Historically, most people traveled on the left side of the road. This practice dates back to medieval times when knights and swordsmen preferred to keep to the left to have their right arm (their sword arm) closer to an opponent or potential threat. Right-Side Driving : As larger vehicles and wagons became common, drivers in some regions began to favor the right side. This allowed drivers, who usually sat on the left side of the wagon, to better control their teams of horses and judge the clearance from oncoming traffic.
British Empire : Countries that were once part of the British Empire often retained the left-hand driving system. This includes countries like India, Australia, and many African nations. European Influence : Countries influenced by European powers, particularly those influenced by Napoleon, adopted right-side driving. Napoleon's conquests spread the practice of right-hand driving across many parts of Europe.
Practical and Political Factors
Sweden : In 1967, Sweden switched from left-hand driving to right-hand driving to conform to the driving practices of its neighboring countries. This was done to facilitate smoother cross-border transportation and reduce accidents. Japan : Despite never being colonized by the British, Japan adopted left-hand driving due to British influence in building its early railway system.
Vehicle Manufacturing : Countries tend to drive on the same side of the road as their major trading partners to simplify vehicle manufacturing and import/export processes. Consistency : Maintaining consistency within regions helps reduce confusion and accidents, especially in areas with significant cross-border travel.
Current Distribution
Left-Side Driving : Approximately 35% of the world’s population drives on the left side of the road. This includes countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, India, and several others. Right-Side Driving : The majority of the world's population drives on the right side of the road. This includes most of Europe, the Americas, and China.
Conclusion
? Which side of the road is safer to drive on ?
Factors Affecting Road Safety
Driver Adaptation : Drivers are generally safer when they are accustomed to the driving norms and regulations of their country. Sudden changes or driving in a country with different driving rules can increase accident risk.
Quality of Roads : Well-maintained roads with clear signage, proper lane markings, and adequate lighting are safer, regardless of the side of the road used. Roundabouts and Intersections : Properly designed intersections and roundabouts can reduce the likelihood of accidents. Each system has its own standard designs that drivers are familiar with.
Driver’s Position : In left-hand driving countries, vehicles typically have the driver’s seat on the right, which provides better visibility for overtaking and judging distances on the left side. Conversely, in right-hand driving countries, vehicles have the driver’s seat on the left.
Law Enforcement : The effectiveness of traffic law enforcement and the adherence to traffic rules play a crucial role in road safety. Driver Education : Comprehensive driver education and awareness programs contribute to safer driving practices.
Safety Measures : The presence of dedicated lanes, pedestrian crossings, and safety measures for non-motorized road users impact overall road safety.
Driving Behavior : The general driving behavior, such as speed limits adherence, seat belt use, and the prevalence of driving under the influence, affects safety more than the side of the road driven on.
Studies and Statistics
Accident Rates : Studies have shown that accident rates are more influenced by the quality of road infrastructure, driver behavior, and law enforcement rather than the side of the road driven on. Transition Periods : Countries that have switched sides (like Sweden in 1967) often experience a temporary increase in accidents due to driver confusion and adaptation issues during the transition period.
Conclusion
? What is a side junction?
Priority : Vehicles on the main road usually have priority, and drivers on the side road must yield before entering the main road. Signage : Side junctions are often marked with road signs, such as "Yield" or "Stop" signs, to inform drivers on the side road of their obligation to yield to traffic on the main road. Visibility : Drivers need to ensure they have a clear view of the traffic on the main road before merging or crossing. Road Markings : There may be specific road markings, such as dashed lines, to indicate the boundary where the side road meets the main road.
? Who has the right of way at a side junction?
Main Road Traffic
Vehicles on the main road generally have the right of way. This means that drivers approaching the main road from a side road must yield to traffic already on the main road.
Traffic Control Devices
Stop Signs : If the side junction has a stop sign for the side road, drivers must come to a complete stop and only proceed when it is safe, yielding to all traffic on the main road. Yield Signs : If there is a yield sign, drivers on the side road must slow down, check for traffic on the main road, and yield the right of way if necessary. No Signs : Even in the absence of signs, the rule generally still applies that vehicles on the side road must yield to those on the main road.
Pedestrians and Cyclists
If there are pedestrian crossings at the junction, drivers must also yield to pedestrians crossing the road. Cyclists on the main road have the same right of way as motor vehicles.
Exceptions
Traffic Lights : At some junctions controlled by traffic lights, the signal will dictate who has the right of way. Vehicles must follow the traffic light indications. Police or Traffic Officers : If present, their instructions override all signs and signals.
Turning Considerations
When turning onto the main road from a side road, you must yield to oncoming traffic and traffic already on the road into which you are turning.
? What should I do if visibility is poor at a side junction?
Slow Down
Approach the junction at a reduced speed to give yourself more time to assess the situation and react to any approaching traffic.
Use Your Lights
Turn on your vehicle's headlights, even during the day, to increase your visibility to other drivers. In very poor visibility conditions, use your fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.
Stop Completely
Even if there isn't a stop sign, come to a complete stop at the junction if visibility is severely limited. This gives you time to check for oncoming traffic and proceed safely.
Edge Forward Slowly
Creep forward slowly to increase your field of vision. Be cautious as you do this, and only move as far as needed to see clearly. Avoid sudden movements that could surprise other drivers.
Check for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists who might be crossing the road or approaching the junction, especially if visibility is poor. They may be more difficult to see, so take extra care.
Use Mirrors and Windows
Utilize all your mirrors and windows to check for traffic from multiple directions. Be aware that condensation or dirt on windows and mirrors can further reduce visibility, so ensure they are clean.
Listen for Traffic
In poor visibility, especially in fog, snow, or rain, use your hearing as an additional sense to detect oncoming vehicles. Roll down your window slightly if needed to listen for approaching traffic.
Signal Early
Use your turn signals early to indicate your intentions to other drivers. This can help make your vehicle more visible and inform other road users of your planned actions.
Wait for a Clear Gap
Do not proceed until you are sure it is safe. Wait for a clear gap in traffic before entering the main road. If you are unsure or cannot see clearly, it is better to wait longer than to risk an accident.
Consider the Time of Day and Weather Conditions
Poor visibility can be caused by various factors like fog, heavy rain, snow, or darkness. Adjust your driving to suit the specific conditions, being especially cautious at dawn, dusk, or night when visibility can change rapidly.
Use Sound Signals if Necessary
In some cases, especially in rural areas or when there is very low visibility, you might use your horn to alert other road users of your presence. This is more common in areas with narrow roads or sharp bends.
? What should I watch for when approaching a side junction?
Traffic on the Main Road
Approaching Vehicles : Look for oncoming traffic on the main road, especially from both directions, to judge the safe moment to enter or cross the road. Speed of Traffic : Estimate the speed of approaching vehicles to determine if there is enough time and space for you to safely enter the main road.
Traffic Control Devices
Stop Signs : If there is a stop sign, ensure you come to a complete stop, regardless of traffic conditions, and proceed only when safe. Yield Signs : Yield to oncoming traffic. Slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. Traffic Lights : Follow the signals. Ensure the path is clear even when you have a green light, as other vehicles may not obey the signals.
Road Signs and Markings
Warning Signs : Look for signs indicating the presence of a junction ahead or other hazards. Lane Markings : Pay attention to any lane markings indicating where you should stop or the correct lane for turning.
Visibility
Obstructions : Watch for obstructions that may limit your view, such as buildings, trees, parked cars, or large vehicles. Poor Weather Conditions : Be mindful of fog, rain, or snow that can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances.
Pedestrians and Cyclists
Crosswalks : Check for pedestrians at crosswalks or those potentially crossing the road. Yield to them as required. Cyclists : Be aware of cyclists who may be riding along the side of the road or crossing the junction.
Other Vehicles Turning
Turning Vehicles : Watch for vehicles making turns into or out of the side junction. They may cross your path or require more space. Large Vehicles : Be cautious of trucks or buses, which may have larger blind spots and require more room to maneuver.
Road Conditions
Potholes or Debris : Look for any road damage, debris, or other obstacles that could affect your path or stopping distance. Surface Conditions : Note the road surface, especially in bad weather, as wet, icy, or uneven surfaces can impact control and stopping distances.
Signaling
Your Signals : Use your indicators well in advance to communicate your intentions to other drivers. Other Drivers' Signals : Watch for indicators from other vehicles to anticipate their movements.
Speed
Your Speed : Adjust your speed as you approach the junction, slowing down to give yourself more time to react to potential hazards. Other Vehicles' Speed : Be aware of how fast other vehicles are approaching, particularly if they are on the main road.
Emergency Vehicles
Lights and Sirens : Be alert for emergency vehicles, which may approach quickly and have the right of way.
? How should I position my vehicle when turning from a main road into a side junction?
Preparation Before the Turn
Check Traffic : Before you begin your maneuver, check your mirrors and blind spots for traffic behind and beside you. Be aware of any vehicles that might be overtaking you or turning as well. Signal Early : Use your turn signal well in advance (usually at least 100 feet or 30 meters before the turn) to inform other road users of your intention to turn.
Positioning for a Right Turn (Driving on the Right)
Approach the Right Lane : If you are driving in a country where traffic keeps to the right (such as the United States), approach the turn by moving your vehicle to the right lane or the right side of your lane if there are no lane markings. Reduce Speed : Gradually slow down as you approach the junction. Be sure to slow down well before the turn to avoid sudden braking. Right Turn at the Junction : When you reach the junction, begin the turn at a safe and steady speed, making sure to check for pedestrians, cyclists, and any vehicles approaching from the opposite direction. Turn into the lane closest to you, avoiding swinging wide.
Positioning for a Left Turn (Driving on the Right)
Approach the Left Lane or Left Side of the Lane : Position your vehicle towards the center line or the left lane if you are on a multi-lane road. Yield to Oncoming Traffic : If there is oncoming traffic, wait at the junction, with your wheels straight, until it is safe to turn. This prevents you from being pushed into oncoming traffic if you are hit from behind. Left Turn at the Junction : When it's clear, make a smooth turn into the lane closest to the center of the road or the lane that continues in the direction you are turning. Avoid cutting the corner or crossing into the oncoming traffic lane.
General Tips for Turning
Check for Pedestrians and Cyclists : Always look for pedestrians and cyclists, especially when turning across crosswalks or bike lanes. They have the right of way. Be Cautious of Large Vehicles : Be aware that large vehicles may require more space to make a turn and may swing wide. Give them plenty of room. Avoid Cutting Corners : Ensure you stay in your lane while turning and avoid cutting across other lanes. This is especially important at larger intersections or where visibility is limited. Maintain a Steady Speed : Avoid accelerating or decelerating sharply during the turn. A steady speed helps maintain control of your vehicle. Complete the Turn : After turning, make sure to turn off your signal and continue driving in the appropriate lane.
Turning in Different Conditions
Night Time : Use your headlights and be extra vigilant for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Adverse Weather : Slow down more than usual, as road conditions can be slippery and visibility may be reduced.