30-10-2024 (LONDON) Thailand has emerged as the fifth most daunting destination for foreign motorists in a comprehensive new survey of international driving anxiety, with India claiming the top spot as the world’s most nerve-wracking country to navigate by car.
The research, conducted by vehicle recycling specialists Scrap Car Comparison, surveyed over 2,000 British motorists who ranked their apprehension levels about driving abroad. India received a striking ‘scare score’ of 7.15 out of 10, while Thailand scored 6.86, placing it behind Venezuela (6.97), Zimbabwe (6.90), and Morocco (6.87).
Survey participants cited Thailand’s left-hand driving system and the prevalence of weaving motorcycles as particularly challenging aspects of the country’s road culture. The study noted the stark contrast between congested urban centres like Bangkok and the more serene rural routes along Thailand’s coastline and mountainous regions.
China ranked marginally lower than Thailand with a score of 6.84, whilst Tunisia, Brazil, Colombia, and Malaysia rounded out the top ten most challenging countries for foreign drivers. In contrast, the Netherlands emerged as one of the least intimidating destinations, scoring just 4.41.
The research revealed three primary concerns among international drivers: navigating opposite-side driving systems (56.2%), encountering dangerous local driving practices (55.9%), and fear of inadvertently violating local traffic regulations (52.7%).
These findings come as increasing numbers of holidaymakers opt for self-drive tourism, seeking greater freedom to explore their destinations.
