Does Canada drive on the left or right side of the road?
2 Answers
Drive on the right. In most countries, vehicles drive on the right side of the road, with only a few island nations and others driving on the left. Driving on the right is considered safer because, in emergency situations, most people instinctively turn the steering wheel to the right. This behavior prevents the vehicle from swerving into oncoming traffic, reducing danger. The origin of right-side driving: 1. Ancient China: Pedestrians, horses, and vehicles generally stayed and moved on the left side of the road, known as "left greeting." When greeting guests, people typically used their right hand, so their bodies naturally leaned to the left. 2. France: The habit of driving on the right side of the road emerged in 18th-century France due to the country's well-developed postal and freight wagon systems. These wagons were usually pulled by two horses, and drivers held the whip in their right hand. Driving on the right allowed them to look left when encountering oncoming traffic, avoiding collisions between wheels or axles. 3. United States: Like France, the U.S. had a developed postal wagon system, leading to the adoption of right-side driving. In 1792, Pennsylvania passed a law mandating right-side driving, followed by New York in 1804 and New Jersey in 1813. This practice gradually spread throughout the entire country.
In Canada, driving is on the right side, just like in the United States. As a veteran long-haul truck driver, I find this rule quite reasonable. Every time I return from the UK, where driving is on the left, it takes some getting used to when I first land. Canada has clear road signs, and the left-hand drive car door design makes it convenient for getting in and out. Safety is especially important—driving on the right reduces the risk of side collisions. When driving in the city, be mindful of slowing down in foggy conditions or during winter snowfall. When renting a car, choosing a left-hand drive vehicle is the most comfortable. On highways, overtaking is done in the left lane—don’t cut in. Overall, Canada’s transportation system is highly efficient, and following the rules makes driving much more pleasant.
