Left-Hand Drive vs Right-Hand Drive: Why Do Cars Have Different Steering Positions in India and Other Countries?
In India and some other countries, cars have the steering wheel on the right-hand side, while in countries like the USA and Germany, the steering is on the left-hand side. This difference often raises a common question – why is it so?
According to experts, the primary reason lies in the direction of traffic flow. In countries like India, Japan, and the UK, traffic moves on the left side of the road. Therefore, the steering wheel is placed on the right, allowing drivers better visibility of oncoming traffic, especially while overtaking.
On the other hand, in countries like the USA, France, and Germany, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the driver sits on the left side, and the steering wheel is on the left as well.
The origins of these systems go back to historical influences. Countries under the British Empire adopted the left-side driving rule, while countries influenced by France or the USA followed right-side driving systems.
As of today, about 75% of countries in the world drive on the right, while the remaining 25% drive on the left.
Key Points :
- India: Left-side traffic, so steering is on the right.
- USA: Right-side traffic, so steering is on the left.
- The difference is due to traffic safety and historical influence.
