Summary
In Scotland, crashes caused by tourists driving on the wrong side of the road rose by 46% from 2022 to 2023. Transport Scotland reported 35 accidents due to inexperience with left-side driving. Efforts are being made to improve signage and reminders for drivers in tourist-heavy areas.
Key Facts
- Crashes due to driving on the wrong side increased by 46% in Scotland from 2022 to 2023.
- There were 35 collisions in 2023 caused by driving on the wrong side, up from 24 the previous year.
- The UK, including Scotland, drives on the left side of the road, unlike most of Europe and the US.
- One collision in 2023 resulted in a death.
- Campaigners call for better signage to remind tourists to drive on the left.
- A campaign provides wristbands to tourists with "drive on the left" in nine languages.
- A specific campaign focuses on road reminders in rural areas where signs may not be obvious.
- Road Safety Scotland works with car hire companies to educate tourists about driving on the left side.
