Ozzie in Oregon

In 2003, I didn't drive over here until more than a month after I had been in Oregon. I first went for a spin around the block with Steve, and he was so unnerved that we went around the neighbourhood for a while to give me some more practice. Then he sent me down the street to Albertson's with a shopping list. I got lost on the way there and called in on the 2-way radio he had given me. He set me straight and I made it to the shops.

However, on the way out, it had grown dark and I missed the turn, twice! Once I thought I would be heading for the freeway. Yikes!! I did finally manage to get home in one piece, but then didn't drive for over a week. After that, Steve made sure he was in the car with me every time I drove, till I left at the end of November.

Over here, there are no diamonds at intersections to guide you into the correct lane when turning. I had a lot of trouble working out where my lane was, and Steve was horrified when I occasionally drove into the wrong lane. At least I didn't turn into oncoming traffic!

Where I come from...	Over here...

The steering wheel is in front of the right seat. The windscreen wipers are (usually) on the left side of the steering column and the blinkers are (usually) on the right. The gearstick is on your left.	The steering wheel is in front of the left seat. The windshield wipers are on the right of the steering column and the turn signals are on the left. The shift lever is on your right.
The accelerator is on your right and the brake pedal is on your left.	The gas pedal is on your right and the brake pedal is on your left. Hey, no change there!

You drive on the left side of the road. The centre line is white.	You drive on the right side of the road. The center line is yellow.

Traffic lights are on poles at the corners of intersections.	Stop lights are above the lanes, suspended by poles or wires.

On the road

Driving basics

Last updated: January 12, 2008 (PST)

Where I come from...

Over here...