Notable Switches in Traffic Handedness
Switching the side of the road on which traffic drives can be a significant event in a nation's history, impacting everything from automobile design to international relations. Such changes are often motivated by political, cultural, or practical reasons. Below are some of the most notable switches from left-hand traffic (LHT) to right-hand traffic (RHT), or vice versa.
Sweden's Högertrafikomläggningen
One of the most famous traffic switches occurred in Sweden on September 3, 1967, an event known as "Dagen H" or "Högertrafikomläggningen". Prior to this, Sweden drove on the left, despite most of its neighboring countries driving on the right, such as Norway and Finland. The switch was made to increase safety and compatibility with other Scandinavian countries. On that day, all vehicles stopped at 4:50 a.m., changed to the opposite side of the road, and resumed at 5:00 a.m.
Japan and its Territories
Japan has historically driven on the left, a practice that extends to its former territories. When Taiwan was under Japanese rule, it adopted LHT. After Japan lost control of Taiwan post-World War II, the region switched to RHT to align with Chinese practices. Similarly, Korea switched from LHT to RHT following liberation from Japan after the war.
Samoa's Switch to LHT
In a move contrary to the global trend towards RHT, Samoa switched from RHT to LHT on September 7, 2009. The decision was influenced by Samoa's desire to align with New Zealand and Australia, both of which drive on the left. This change allowed Samoans to import more affordable cars from these countries. It was the first switch in the modern era to LHT.
Myanmar's Switch in 1970
A particularly unusual switch occurred in Myanmar (formerly Burma) in 1970. Despite British colonial influence, which had established LHT, the government decided to switch to RHT. The rationale behind this decision is not entirely clear, but it has been speculated to involve astrological advice given to government officials. Interestingly, many vehicles in Myanmar are still right-hand drive, imported from Japan, creating a unique and potentially dangerous situation on the roads.
Canada's Newfoundland and Labrador
In Canada, the island of Newfoundland drove on the left until it joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949. The transition to RHT was implemented to standardize traffic laws across the newly enlarged country. This change reflected the broader North American practice of RHT.
Czechoslovakia's Post-War Transition
After gaining independence following the end of World War I, Czechoslovakia initially drove on the left, influenced by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The switch to RHT was completed in 1939 under German occupation, aligning with Nazi Germany's traffic conventions.
Austria and Hungary
Both Austria and Hungary transitioned to RHT during the lead-up to and following World War II. Austria switched in 1938 following the Anschluss with Germany, and Hungary followed suit in 1941, as Axis Powers influence increased.
These changes in traffic handedness illustrate the complex interplay between cultural traditions, political imperatives, and practical considerations in road traffic management. Each switch represents a significant adaptation for the affected populace and underscores the broader implications of traffic laws in shaping national and regional identities.