Which countries have cars with the steering wheel on the right?
3 Answers
Cars with the steering wheel on the right are found in countries such as Japan, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Whether the steering wheel is on the left or right does not affect the car's performance; it is simply due to different road designs in various countries or regions. If the steering wheel is on the right, many controls, such as the handbrake and some buttons on the driver's door, will also be on the right. Drivers accustomed to left-hand drive cars may find it very unfamiliar when driving a right-hand drive car for the first time, even struggling with gear shifting, which is normal. Right-hand drive is designed for safety in left-hand traffic, just as left-hand drive is designed for safety in right-hand traffic.
I've traveled to many places by car, and the position of the steering wheel is an interesting topic. Cars in the UK have the steering wheel on the right because they drive on the left. Japan has the same setup, and when I rented a car there for travel, it was my first time driving a right-hand drive vehicle—I was a bit nervous, but it became quite smooth once I got used to it. Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Thailand are all the same. Ireland also has right-hand drive. Historically, regions that were British colonies or deeply influenced by the UK adopted left-hand traffic rules, placing the steering wheel on the right for better visibility of the roadside and overtaking. Car rental companies usually remind drivers about the adaptation period, recommending starting at a slow speed and ensuring the rearview mirrors are properly adjusted. From a safety perspective, this layout is particularly convenient in mountainous areas or narrow streets.
I've driven in different countries during business trips, and the steering wheel position varies by country. In the UK, vehicles have the steering wheel on the right side, driving on the left. Japan is the same, and driving with the wheel on the right felt unfamiliar at first but I adapted quickly. Australia, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Africa all follow this pattern. During my vacation in Thailand, the car I rented was also right-hand drive. The reason behind this is traffic regulations: in left-hand traffic countries, the steering wheel is placed on the right to position the driver closer to the center of the road, providing a better view of oncoming traffic. My first time driving a right-hand drive car in London was a bit chaotic, but the rental shop gave me tips, like practicing parking more. Checking local rules before traveling is important to avoid accidents.
