Book 25, Question 44 · Video
Why do different countries drive on different sides of the road?
Long ago, travelers on horseback and in wagons chose sides for their own reasons. Over time, countries made rules to keep everyone safe. Canada, the United States, and many other countries drive on the right. About a third of people live in countries that drive on the left, such as the United Kingdom and Japan. Cars are built to fit the rule.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do different countries drive on different sides of the road?
The Big Idea
In some countries, cars drive on the right. In others, they drive on the left! Why are there two ways?
Long Ago
Step one: Long Ago. Long ago, travelers on horseback and in wagons chose sides for their own reasons. Different places had different habits.
Rules
Step two: Rules. Over time, countries made rules to keep everyone safe. Canada, the United States, and many other countries drive on the right.
Left Side
Step three: Left Side. About a third of people live in countries that drive on the left, such as the United Kingdom and Japan. Cars are built to fit the rule, with the steering wheel on the matching side.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Many countries drive on the right. Some drive on the left. Steering wheels switch sides. Rules keep everyone safe.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Sweden changed from the left to the right side in one day in 1967. Australia drives on the left. Look both ways everywhere. Wheels switch sides.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Look at a map or globe. Find three countries that drive on the left. Try the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia. Mark them on your map. Which side does your country drive on?
Outro
Different countries drive on different sides because of old habits and later safety rules. Canada and the US drive on the right, while places like the UK and Japan drive on the left. Science is amazing! The world is full of surprises. Keep asking big questions, and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!