Citation

Hopper R. ITE J. 1983; 53(2): 21-24.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1983, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Information is provided on driving rule preferences of various countries, that is, driving on the left side or on the right side. This preference emerges from the source of influence. This source of influence may be a result of national heritage or as a result of various customs or traditions. Research into the question reveals the basic reasons. To begin with, about 90% of the human race is right handed and always has been. Until about 200 years ago, this right handedness favored keeping to the left. But later development in certain countries of large horse drawn freight wagons with drivers seated on the left rear horse of the team resulted in rules to keep to the right to pass oncoming traffic. Finally, once a nation had developed a custom of driving on one side of the road, it became increasingly difficult and costly to switch to the other side. Still, changes have been made, many of them connected with military activities and transfers of sovereignty.