Switching sides feels odd at first, but with a plan you can be confident by day’s end.
Your 1‑day adaptation plan
- Hour 0–1: Setup and muscle memory
- Adjust seat and mirrors; note that stalks (signals/wipers) may be reversed from what you’re used to.
- Do 5 minutes of “signal–mirror–shoulder check” drills while stationary.
- Hour 1–2: Empty lot practice
- Drive slow figure‑8s, left/right turns, gentle braking. Get used to keeping the car centered in the left lane.
- Hour 2–4: Quiet neighborhood loop (40–60 km/h)
- Practice lane changes, mini‑roundabouts, and parking on the left side.
- Hour 4–6: Real‑world mix
- Try a short coastal or suburban route with a few U‑turn lanes and one hill. Skip Patong Hill until you’re fully comfortable.
- Evening: If unsure, avoid night driving on day 1—visibility and glare make adaptation harder.
Roundabouts, turns, and lane discipline
- Give way to traffic already in the roundabout (Thai rule), but anticipate that some drivers won’t.
- Signal left before exiting a roundabout; choose lanes early.
- Left turns: check your left mirror—motorbikes often filter up the inside.
- Right turns: swing into the correct lane and watch for oncoming traffic from your right.
- Keep left except to overtake; expect U‑turn bays on main roads—slow early and signal.
Spatial tricks that work
- “Driver to the center” reminder: your body should be near the road centerline; this prevents drifting right.
- Use the right lane line as your centering reference; set the left mirror to see a sliver of curb to avoid hugging it.
- Most rentals are automatic—keep the left hand ready for the shifter, but drive two‑hands on the wheel.
Safety basics for Phuket
- Rain = longer braking distances. Use engine braking on descents; avoid deep water.
- Phones: hands‑free only. Seat belts for all; child seats for kids.
- Left on red only where signed. Choose to pay for fuel/fees in THB at terminals (avoid DCC).
- Documents: carry your national license, an IDP (1949), rental agreement, and emergency contacts.
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