The history for what side of the road to drive is interesting.



Left vs Right driving across the world : r/MapPorn
The difference is because the UK drives on the left side of the road, while the US drives on the right. This practice dates back centuries, with the UK's tradition rooted in keeping horses to the left for the convenience of right-handed swordsmen. The US and other countries that drive on the right adopted this system due to factors like large wagons and French influence. Consequently, the steering wheel is on the right in the UK to keep the driver closer to the center of the road for better visibility, and on the left in the US.
UK (right-side steering)
Driving on the left: The UK has a long-standing tradition of driving on the left, which was solidified by law in the 19th century.
Practicality: This means that the steering wheel is on the right side of the car. This position places the driver closer to the center of the road, which is crucial for visibility when passing other vehicles.
US (left-side steering)
Driving on the right: The US adopted right-side driving, influenced by the design of large freight wagons where drivers sat on the left to control the team with a whip in their right hand.
Practicality: The steering wheel is on the left side of the car to keep the driver close to the center line for visibility when passing.
Why they are different
Historical influence: Britain and its former colonies, like India, Australia, and New Zealand, drive on the left due to its historical influence.
Napoleon's influence: Napoleon Bonaparte helped spread right-hand traffic across continental Europe, and his influence was a factor in the US also adopting right-side driving.
Mass production: Henry Ford's mass-produced Model T with a left-side steering wheel solidified the right-hand driving norm in the US and influenced other countries that drive on the right.

8m
Left vs. Right: Why Do Countries Drive on Different Sides of the Road?


YouTube·History of Simple Things

@samueltyler2 Quite so. But here is an interesting one. The McLaren P1 has the steering wheel and drivers seat in the centre. I didnt believe it myself (although i heard it on Top Gear) until I walked in front of two at a pedestrian crossing in Dubai. I didnt know that was legal. But McLaren are driven here.😷

@whowasthatmaskedman the original cars as invented also had that, as per photos.