How to adjust from Canadian roads to UK motorways

Driving on the Left – The Biggest Adjustment

The most immediate difference for Canadian drivers is, of course, driving on the left-hand side of the road. This means that everything feels flipped - from the driver’s seat position to the way you take on roundabouts. If you’re hiring or borrowing a car, take a few moments to familiarise yourself with the layout before pulling away.

Key things to keep in mind:

• Motorway exits and slip roads are on the left, not the right.
• Roundabouts flow clockwise rather than anti-clockwise.
• The right-hand lane is for overtaking, not cruising.

It can take a whilst to retrain your instincts, especially at junctions and roundabouts. If you find yourself reaching for the gear stick with the wrong hand, don’t worry - you’re not alone.

Understanding UK Motorways

UK motorways might be smaller than the vast Trans-Canada Highway, but they are well-maintained and efficiently designed. Most motorways have three or four lanes, and unlike in Canada, there are no toll booths (except on a few select routes).

Important motorway rules to note:

• Speed Limits: The default motorway speed limit is 70 mph (about 113 km/h). Variable speed limits may apply in congested areas.
• Lane Discipline: The left lane is for normal driving, and the right lanes are strictly for overtaking.
• Smart Motorways: Some motorways have variable speed limits and lane closures, indicated by overhead signs.
• Slip Roads: Entering and exiting the motorway requires merging at speed - there are no stop signs or traffic lights.

If you’re used to wide North American roads with plenty of merging space, UK motorways may feel a bit tighter. Anticipating exits early and staying aware of lane changes is pivotal.

Roundabouts – A Whole New World

Canadians may be familiar with roundabouts, but in the UK, they are everywhere. Unlike the occasional North American traffic circle, UK roundabouts range from tiny single-lane versions to massive multi-lane junctions.

Rules for inspecting roundabouts:

• Give way to traffic from your right before entering.
• Use indicators when exiting.
• Stick to the correct lane if there are multiple entry points.

It may take a few attempts to feel comfortable, but once you get the hang of them, roundabouts can actually make traffic flow more smoothly than stop signs or traffic lights.

Fuel Stops and Service Areas

Unlike in Canada, where you may drive for hours without seeing a petrol station, UK motorways have frequent service areas with fuel stations, restaurants, and toilets. These are often well-signposted, so there’s little risk of running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere.

Fuel types are slightly different from what you may be used to:

• Petrol is typically labelled as "Unleaded" (or sometimes "E10").
• Diesel pumps are clearly marked, but make sure you don’t mix them up - misfuelling is a costly mistake.

Dealing with Narrow Roads and City Driving

Outside of motorways, UK roads can feel narrow - especially in rural areas. If you’re used to the wide lanes of Canadian highways, be prepared for roads that often accommodate only one vehicle at a time.

In city centres, one-way systems and bus lanes can be confusing. Keep an eye out for signs, and be prepared for more stop-start traffic than you might be used to.

Parking – A Game of Strategy

Parking in the UK is a different experience compared to Canada, where large car parks are the norm. In city centres, on-street parking is often limited and may require payment via a mobile app or pay-and-display machine.

Things to check before parking:

• Whether parking requires a permit.
• Time restrictions - some areas only allow short stays.
• Clearways - some roads prohibit parking during peak hours.

How Temporary Insurance Can Help

If you’re borrowing a car whilst adjusting to UK roads, sorting out the right insurance is clearly recommended. Short-term cover may allow you to legally drive without committing to an annual policy. This can be useful if:

• You’re using a family member’s or friend’s car.
• You’re hiring a car but want additional cover.
• You’re test-driving vehicles before purchasing.

Short-term insurance can provide a flexible solution for Canadian visitors who only need cover for a limited period.

Final Remarks:

Adjusting to UK motorways from Canadian roads may feel daunting at first, but with a bit of preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Keeping left, understanding speed limits, and getting comfortable with roundabouts could make the transition much smoother.

If you’re planning to drive in the UK, having the right insurance is just as important as knowing the rules of the road. Tap below to see your short-term insurance quotation..