Although they are not as widespread in America or even in Indiana, right-hand cars, commonly known as right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, are common in many countries, particularly in Europe and Asia. Consider it. Have you ever been on the road and observed a right-hand automobile up close? If so, it was undoubtedly a mail delivery van; if not, you’ve probably only seen them in movies or on television. But not me. Recently, I observed a Mercedes Benz driving around Evansville’s west side. My attention was definitely drawn to the driver on the “wrong” side of the automobile, which led me to wonder if such a vehicle is permitted in Indiana.
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Is It Legal to Drive an RHD Vehicle in Indiana?
Based on my research, it appears that neither Indiana nor the rest of the nation have any regulations that forbid purchasing, owning, or driving a car with a right-hand drive system. Since you’re driving on the right side of the road in a car that was designed for the left, it could take some getting used to, but drivers of RHD vehicles are still required to follow all standard traffic laws. However, I suppose you can figure it out if our mail carriers can.
Why Do Some Countries Drive on the Left?
According to History.com, the ancient Romans were the first to drive their carts and chariots on the left side of the road. It carried over into contemporary Europe and became the norm. That provides a “when” explanation, but it doesn’t provide a “why.” According to archaeologists, this is because the majority of individuals in that era were right-handed. They were still able to use their firearms when and if needed because they were driving on the left side.
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