Should Vehicles Drive on the Right Side in China?
2 Answers
In China, vehicles should drive on the right side. Since most people are right-handed, driving on the right helps avoid dangers as the right hand can apply pressure to the left more quickly than the left hand, reducing the risk of head-on collisions when vehicles travel in opposite directions. Below is an introduction to right-hand and left-hand driving: Differences between right-hand and left-hand driving: Most countries and regions that drive on the left side today were former colonies of the British Empire. Historically, left-hand driving was the global mainstream. Advantages and disadvantages of right-hand and left-hand driving: The primary advantage of left-hand driving stems from human self-preservation instincts. When moving forward rapidly, people instinctively lean left upon encountering sudden danger, which helps protect the heart. The benefit of right-hand driving is that drivers can more easily control the steering wheel with their left hand while using the same hand to perform complex tasks like gear shifting and operating the dashboard. Since the majority of people are right-handed, right-hand driving is generally more advantageous.
I've been driving in China for many years, and keeping to the right is a fundamental rule that must be followed, as it ensures traffic order and safety. Both urban roads and highways are designed for right-hand traffic. Driving on the left can cause confusion or even accidents, such as encountering oncoming vehicles at intersections. I remember once during a trip in the suburbs, someone tried to overtake on the left, causing a traffic jam. Fortunately, the police corrected the situation promptly. New drivers should practice driving in the right lane more often, and using GPS navigation can also help reinforce this habit. Additionally, China standardized the right-hand traffic system starting in 1949, which aligns with European and American countries, facilitating vehicle imports and tourism. Every time I start my car, I habitually check the dashboard and my position. Safe driving isn't just about keeping to the right; it also includes speed control and observing traffic signals. These small details add up to ensure safety. Overall, this rule makes China's roads more efficient, and I recommend car owners also check their tires and brakes during maintenance to ensure everything is in order.
