Driving on the left side of the road may seem strange if you’re from the U.S.—but for over 65 countries around the world, it’s perfectly normal. Ever wonder how this happened? Why some cars are right-hand drive, and others left? Buckle up as we explore the fascinating, weird, and surprisingly political history behind which side of the road we drive on.

It All Started with Swords and Horses

Back in the days before steering wheels (or even roads as we know them), travelers rode horses or wagons, and most people were right-handed. To keep your sword hand free in case of trouble, it made sense to ride on the left side of the path. This allowed right-handed riders to easily defend themselves or greet others.

This left-side custom dates back to the Roman Empire, which archaeologists confirmed based on road grooves worn by chariots and wagons near Roman sites like England’s Swindon.

Napoleon Changed the Rules (Because of Course He Did)

The switch to right-side driving came in part thanks to Napoleon Bonaparte, who wasn’t a fan of traditions associated with aristocracy (like riding left). As he conquered Europe, Napoleon enforced right-side travel in the territories he controlled. This became the norm in much of continental Europe.

Meanwhile, Britain stuck to the left and later required it by law with the Highway Act of 1835, spreading the custom to many of its colonies—like India, Australia, and parts of Africa.

America Went Right (and Big)

In the U.S., driving on the right became popular as early as the 18th century. With freight wagons pulled by teams of horses, drivers would sit on the rear left horse to keep their whip hand free—so it made sense to keep opposing traffic on the left (i.e., drive on the right).

By the time Henry Ford’s Model T rolled off the production line in 1908, it featured left-hand steering, reinforcing the right-side driving standard across the U.S. and Canada.

So… Which Countries Drive on the Left Today?

Roughly 35% of the world still drives on the left side of the road today, mostly due to historical British influence.

🛣️ Countries that drive on the left include:

• United Kingdom

• Japan

• Australia

• India

• South Africa

• New Zealand

• Thailand

Pro Tip: In countries like the UK or Japan, roundabouts go clockwise. Don’t panic—just follow the locals!

🛻 Countries that drive on the right include:

• United States

• Canada

• China

• Brazil

• France

• Germany

• Mexico

Driving sides aren’t just a quirky global difference—they’re windows into world history, colonial legacy, and even military influence. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a left- or right-hand drive car, now you’ll know why it’s set up that way.