How to Drive in Australia

FarBizarre

Editor

posted on 13 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Driving in Australia, like most other western nations, is relatively easy and straightforward - most of the cars you come across are automatic transmission and the road rules are similar to other countries. An important note for foreigners, however, is that Australia, like New Zealand and the UK, drive on the left side of the road instead of the right. Read on for tips on how to navigate Australian roads as a first-timer.

Steps

Be prepared to drive on the Left Hand Side (LHS).

Driving on the LHS means that your steering wheel will be on the right of the car with the gears to your left. The basic challenge for an unfamiliar driver will be that it is not left-hand turns which are problematic. Simply be in the left-hand lane, obey any traffic signals and a left-turn is easy. Review the local laws and know the street signs and speed limit. Practice in a safe beginner space. After you are familiar with the different visibility and turning radiuses required when making turns in a left driving, you can drive on a busy street.

Understand the speed limits in Australia.

For the most part, this is straightforward. One thing to keep in mind is that speed limits vary between different types of roads and the areas that you are in.

Know how to interpret traffic signals.

Red means stop on traffic signals. Unlike other nations, you can never turn left on a red.

Use Roundabouts correctly.

Australia has many 'roundabouts' - known as 'traffic circles' in some other nations. The rule here is simple. Approach, slow down, and look to your right. If you see a car, stop before entering the roundabout - that car is more than likely going to pass you (it's 2 of the 3 options). As you become more accustomed to LHS driving, you'll learn to look for the other car's indicator. If it's flashing a left hand turn, it won't be in your path and you are good to go on. But always slow down and remember that even the locals get very conservative on multiple lane roundabouts.

Perform right turns correctly.

When turning right, you must give way to all oncoming traffic at all times. At large intersections, a 'right turn arrow' may appear giving you right of way. At intersections without an arrow, it is permissible to creep into the middle (so long as you don't obstruct anyone ... just slowly move into a 'ready to turn' position). It's not uncommon to just 'sit' for up to a minute in this spot. A break in traffic will come, but you are also allowed to 'turn on the red' if you are already in the intersection. That is, as oncoming traffic (and the flow-through behind you) stops to observe the new red light, you can hurry on through with your right turn before the intersecting traffic begins to move.