Why are steering wheels on the right side in foreign countries?
2 Answers
Only the United Kingdom, former British colonies, and a few other countries have steering wheels designed on the right side of the car. It is said that this was due to Napoleon's requirement. Below is a partial introduction about traffic systems: 1. Currently, there are two types of traffic systems in the world: driving on the right side and driving on the left side. 2. Initially, when Karl Benz invented the car, the steering wheel was placed in the center. However, based on ergonomic principles, over 90% of people are right-handed. To ensure accurate and safe use of the gear shift and brakes, designers placed the driver's seat on the right side.
Actually, the position of the steering wheel is primarily determined by traffic regulations. In countries like the UK and Australia, where traffic rules dictate driving on the left, the steering wheel is placed on the right to allow drivers a better view of the road, especially during overtaking and turning. This practice dates back to medieval Europe when horseback riders kept to the left to protect themselves with their right hand holding a sword. Over time, this tradition carried over into the automobile industry after industrialization. Japan, for example, followed the British tradition. Today, these countries maintain right-hand drive mainly due to habit and safety considerations. Changing the entire traffic system suddenly would be too costly and could cause chaos. Driving a left-hand drive car in a right-hand drive country can be awkward and prone to accidents. It's fun to experience it while traveling, but normally, it's best to follow local rules.
