New campaign reminds tourists to drive on the left
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A CAMPAIGN has been launched reminding overseas tourists to Scotland to drive on the left.
Behind the initiative are Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland, in partnership with the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).
The campaign was launched at Road Safety Scotland's Annual Seminar by Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth, who was joined by Superintendent Stewart Mackie from Police Scotland, Margaret Spiers from Arnold Clark and Bruce Arell from Enterprise Holdings.
Figures from Police Scotland show inexperience of driving on the left is among the most common contributory factors for fatalities involving foreign drivers in Scotland1, with the five most common contributory factors being: Inexperience of driving on the left; Failing to look properly; Poor turning or manoeuvring; Careless, reckless or in a hurry; Distraction outside the vehicle.
The new Drive on the Left campaign sets out to help drivers stay safe as they embark on their journey to Scotland, by sharing useful information about Scotland's roads, which often differ from other countries, including how to navigate single-track roads and passing places.
Drivers are urged to stay alert and be well-rested to avoid switching to autopilot, which can easily happen when the roads are quiet or a driver is tired, and can cause someone to enter a roundabout the wrong way or turn onto the wrong side of the road at a junction.
Tourists are also reminded that weather conditions can change quickly in Scotland, making it even more challenging to navigate long and twisty roads.
Ms Gilruth said: "We want all visitors to Scotland to return safely from their travels.
"This campaign aims to raise awareness and remind people to drive on the left at all times, which is particularly important after they’ve taken a break or when the roads are quieter.
"Scotland's roads can be unfamiliar to visitors and that often demands more concentration. It's easy to switch to autopilot, particularly if you are distracted, tired or driving in bad weather.
“With the recent number of devastating fatalities on the A9, it’s especially important we reach all drivers travelling on Scotland’s roads this summer. Make sure you plan ahead, take regular breaks and know the rules of the road."
Drive on the Left wristbands and stickers will be distributed through BVRLA to tourists when they collect a hire car, along with a Driving in Scotland information leaflet, which offers practical advice about driving on single-track roads, looking both ways at junctions, speed limits, planning your journey and taking regular rest stops to avoid fatigue. The wristband is available in eight different languages.
Advice for drivers will also be shared on the Road Safety Scotland social media channels through digital assets and video content.
The campaign is supported by partner organisations including VisitScotland, helping to ensure as many overseas drivers as possible are reminded to drive on the left while visiting Scotland.
For more details and for advice about driving in Scotland, visit bit.ly/DriveOnTheLeft23 or the Road Safety Scotland Facebook and Twitter (@roadsafetyscot) pages.
