Why Do the English Drive on the Left Hand Side of the Road?

Driving on the left side of the road is the norm in England. Having the steering wheel on the opposite side of the car can take a bit of adjusting for those visitors from countries such as France and the United States who traditionally drive on the right.

Medieval Times

In the more violent medieval society, most people were right-handed. People passed each other on the left in order to keep their sword arm free.

Horseback Safety

Since horses are mounted on the left, it made more sense to travel on the left-hand side of the road. This way the rider could safely mount at the side of the road, rather than in the middle.

Papal Decree

It is believed that in around 1300 AD, Pope Benefice decreed that his followers keep to the left.

Left Becomes Law

In 1773, the British government introduced the General Highways Act. It had a keep left clause, which later became part of the 1835 Highways Bill.

Fun Fact

Napoleon changed France's driving habits to the right because he was left-handed. He wanted his sword arm facing his enemies.

References

• Sword Arms
• Papal Decree
• Napoleon

Resources

• History of Left and Right Hand Drive