Driving on the left abroad: what you need to know before you go
Driving on the left can be unsettling for Swiss drivers used to driving on the right. Yet, many countries around the world have adopted left-hand traffic. Whether you're vacationing in Ireland, road-tripping through Australia, or staying in Japan, it's essential to be well prepared.
In this article, we share all our tips, including:
- A list of countries where people drive on the left
- Tips to adapt to left-hand driving and avoid common mistakes
Which countries drive on the left?
More than 70 countries around the world drive on the left, with a majority in Asia and former British colonies. Among the most well-known:
- The United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- India
- South Africa
- Thailand
In these countries, cars usually have the steering wheel on the right, which can be surprising at first.
Why do some countries drive on the left?
Left-hand driving dates back to the time when knights rode horses with their swords on the left, as most were right-handed. This allowed them to draw their weapon more easily in case of threat. This system was retained in several countries, especially those under British influence.
How to quickly adapt to driving on the left?
Here are some tips to ease the transition:
- Take time to get familiar with the vehicle before starting.
- Use a voice GPS to avoid distractions.
- Stay focused at intersections and roundabouts, where habits can mislead you. Having a co-driver who stays alert and reminds you is even better!
- Avoid driving at night during the first few days.
- Rent an automatic car so you don’t have to shift gears with your left hand.
- Learn the traffic rules of the country you're visiting.
Note: As a pedestrian, make sure to look the correct way before crossing the road!
What are the common pitfalls when driving on the left?
Drivers coming from Switzerland may make certain mistakes when driving on the left:
- Choosing the wrong lane when exiting a parking lot or gas station.
- Looking the wrong way before crossing a road.
- Forgetting that roundabouts go in the opposite direction.
Do you need special insurance to drive on the left?
Check that your car insurance covers you abroad or take out specific insurance for your trip. We recommend:
- Checking exclusions in your travel or car insurance policy.
- Taking out additional insurance if you’re renting a vehicle.
- Requesting extended coverage for countries outside Europe.
- At Europ Assistance Switzerland, our travel insurance includes coverage in case of an accident abroad, even in countries with left-hand driving, but we do not include roadside assistance.
Can you rent a car with the steering wheel on the right?
Yes, in countries where people drive on the left, rental cars usually have the steering wheel on the right. It may be surprising, but rental companies often offer automatic models to make driving easier.
Driving on the left with your own Swiss vehicle
Adjusting headlights for left-hand driving
If you plan to travel to Great Britain or Ireland with your Swiss-registered car, it’s essential to check your headlights’ orientation. In Switzerland, vehicles are designed to light up the right side of the road, which can cause dangerous glare for oncoming drivers in left-hand traffic countries.
Note: Be sure to read our article on the 8 checks on your car before you leave.
Using filters or headlight covers
To fix this issue, you have several options:
- Install optical filters (also called beam deflectors) on your headlights. These accessories are designed to change the lighting angle.
- Apply opaque tape to a specific area of the headlight. This method is less precise and may reduce visibility.
- Manually adjust your headlights: some car models allow you to change the beam direction via the dashboard.
Warning: Lowering the headlights to the maximum is not recommended, as it can limit your field of vision, especially at night or in bad weather.
Where to find adapters in Switzerland
Beam deflectors, such as those offered by Eurolites, are available:
- In stores specializing in car accessories
- Through Swiss automobile clubs (like TCS)
- On online sales platforms
- On board some ferries to the United Kingdom
Before installing them, it’s essential to carefully read the instructions to position them correctly. Poor installation can make the device ineffective.
What to do upon returning
La conduite à gauche ne doit pas être un frein à vos envies de voyage. Avec un peu de préparation, une bonne assurance et quelques conseils pratiques, vous pouvez partir l’esprit tranquille. N’oubliez pas de vérifier votre couverture d’assurance avant de prendre le volant à l’étranger.
Once back in Switzerland or in a right-hand traffic country, it’s important to remove the adapters or reset the headlight orientation if you made manual adjustments. This ensures optimal visibility and avoids glare risks on Swiss roads.
Driving on the left shouldn’t stop you from traveling. With a bit of preparation, good insurance, and practical tips, you can hit the road with peace of mind. Don’t forget to check your insurance coverage before driving abroad.
