India uses right-hand drive (RHD) cars because of a combination of historical influence and practical reasons. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Colonial History:
India’s driving system is a direct result of British colonial rule. The British drove on the right, and this convention was applied across their colonies, including India. After gaining independence in 1947, India continued with this system.
Medieval Origins:
The practice of driving on the left can be traced back to medieval times in Europe, where swordsmen preferred to keep their dominant hand (usually the right) closer to potential threats when passing strangers.
Driver Visibility:
With traffic moving on the left, having the driver seated on the right side provides better visibility of oncoming traffic. This is especially important in India’s densely populated cities and rural roads, making overtaking safer.
Global Influence:
Several other countries that were once part of the British Empire, such as Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand, also drive on the left and use RHD vehicles. Japan, though not a former colony, adopted this system voluntarily.
In essence, India’s use of RHD vehicles is a blend of historical influence and practical safety considerations, ensuring that the system works efficiently on its roads today.
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