What side is the clutch on in Ireland?

Driving in Ireland: Clutch on the Left, Gears on the Right

Ireland, a country known for its rolling green hills and friendly people, has a unique driving style that differs from many other countries. While Irish cars are driven on the left-hand side of the road, they retain a familiar pedal arrangement: the brake is in the center, the accelerator is on the right, and the clutch is on the left.

However, there is one notable difference that can be quite jarring for drivers accustomed to driving on the right-hand side of the road: the gearshift is positioned to the driver’s left. This means that drivers have to shift gears with their left hand, which can be particularly challenging at first.

This unconventional setup can be attributed to the historical influence of British driving practices. Ireland was once a British colony, and as such, many of its driving customs and regulations are based on those of the United Kingdom. In the UK, cars are also driven on the left, and the gearshift is positioned on the right side of the driver due to the lack of space on the left side.

It’s important to note that this setup is unique to Ireland and the UK. In most other countries, including those that drive on the left-hand side, the gearshift is positioned on the driver’s right. This is because the majority of people are right-handed, and shifting gears with the right hand is more comfortable and natural.

Despite the seemingly unusual gearshift placement, many Irish drivers find it to be quite convenient. By having the gearshift on the left, they can easily rest their left arm on the armrest or door while driving, which can be especially helpful on long journeys.

While the left-hand gearshift may initially seem like a strange arrangement, it’s important to remember that it’s a perfectly functional setup that is widely used in Ireland. With a little bit of practice, any driver can become comfortable shifting gears with their left hand and enjoy the unique driving experience of Ireland.