Skyscanner has launched the first-ever left hand driving school, and their aim is to give holiday-goers the confidence they need to drive abroad – and with good reason. Recent research has revealed that a quarter of British travellers admit to being afraid of driving on the opposite side of the road.
The travel search site has teamed up with an elite team of driving instructors to offer free classes to travellers looking for best practice and advice to remain on the right side of foreign road laws.
Drivers’ top five fears include not recognising road signs, getting lost, roundabouts, trying to navigate and driving on the other side of the road.
The guide not only includes a list of national speed limits for UK’s most popular holiday destinations but also a list of unusual road signs they may come across as this is cited as the most fearful part of driving overseas. There are also top tips on how to drive on the right as well as a list of some of the more unusual driving laws from across the globe.
Here are a list of the most useful tips from the guide:
Left Hand Driving: Top Tips
Repeat the phrase ‘drive on the right’ and remember you want to always be closest to the middle of the road
On a dual carriageway or motorway remember that the ‘fast’ lane is the far left lane and the ‘slow’ lane is the far right lane
As a beginner it’s worth sticking to the right lane and take it slowly until you have built up your confidence
When approaching a roundabout remember that you must give way to the left and drive anti-clockwise around them
It is important to remember that the most dangerous turn is now the left hand turn because it crosses the other lane of traffic
Having a co-pilot can be a help. A backseat driver can be more of a help than a hindrance because a reminder to stay on the correct side is certainly welcome, as is any help on navigating
If you’re headed to Nice this summer, remember to carry a breathalyser in the car as it’s a legal requirement for all motorists in France
In some cities in Spain cars must be parked on different sides of the road according to the day of the week, so check before you pull up to a spot
If you’re planning on holidaying in Spain or the Canary Islands and you wear glasses, the driving laws require you to carry an additional pair when driving
In most cities in Portugal and Italy cars must be parked in the direction of traffic, so if you’re visiting this summer remember to follow the locals and don’t be caught out
The USA is a popular country for road trips but it’s important to remember rules vary from state to state so it’s worth checking before you arrive. One law, regardless of state, is that it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus, whichever direction you’re travelling in
Classes will run on Saturday, July 12 in Brixton and are subject to availability.
British travellers looking to take part in the left hand driving school can apply for a class via the Skyscanner website.
Applicants must be between 25 – 70 years old and must have a clean and valid driving licence. Terms and conditions apply. Please email LeftHandDrivingSchool@mischiefpr.com to find out availability.
