RoadSmart Report | September, 2007

Operating a right-hand drive vehicle in Saskatchewan

With an increasing number of right-hand drive vehicles hitting Saskatchewan roadways, SGI is reminding motorists to put safety first.

Although you are not required to pass any special road test or examination to operate a right-hand drive vehicle, drivers still need to be extra cautious.

The primary safety issue associated with a right-hand drive vehicle is the limited visibility when entering a roadway, making a left turn or passing another vehicle.

“When attempting to pass or manoeuvre around other vehicles, you must move considerably to the left to check for oncoming traffic before being able to proceed safely,” says Brian Kline, SGI’s Manager of Vehicle Inspection. “This is very dangerous and it is recommended that the driver leave considerable distance between themselves and the vehicle that is being overtaken.”

Kline adds that when leaving a parked position or making a left turn, you also need to exercise extra caution as there may be other vehicles blocking your view of the traffic travelling in the same or opposite direction.

Drivers who wish to operate a right-hand drive vehicle must also remember that vehicles imported into Saskatchewan from another jurisdiction or country are subject to a first-time registered vehicle inspection and must comply with provincial inspection and equipment requirements prior to passing inspection and subsequently being eligible for registration.

“During the inspection of a right-hand drive vehicle, inspection technicians have been instructed to check for specific equipment compliances,” says Kline. “That  includes tires, seatbelts, windshields and other glass, headlamps, daytime running lamps, side marker lamps and reflectors, lamps and lenses, mirrors, wheel alignment and safety switches. If any deficiencies are detected, they must be corrected before the vehicle can be licensed.”

Contact:
Brian Kline
Manager, Vehicle Inspection
SGI
Regina
(306) 775-6189