Driving in Bangladesh can be a challenging experience, but by following the rules of the road, you can help ensure a safe and smooth journey. If you're planning to drive in Bangladesh, it's important to be aware of the local driving laws and customs. In this article, we'll cover some of the key driving rules in Bangladesh to help you get started.
1. Driver's License: In order to drive in Bangladesh, you must have a valid driver's license from your home country. If you're from an EU or North American country, you can drive with your home country license for up to six months. However, if you're planning to stay in Bangladesh for longer, you should apply for an International Driver's Permit (IDP).
2. Right-hand driving: In Bangladesh, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. This may take some getting used to, especially if you're used to driving on the right. Be extra cautious when making turns and when approaching intersections to avoid any confusion.
3. Seat belts: It's mandatory for all passengers in the front seat to wear seat belts. Children under the age of 12 are required to sit in the back seat.
4. Speed limits: Bangladesh has set speed limits for different types of roads. For example, the speed limit on highways is 80 km/h, while the speed limit in residential areas is 40 km/h. Be sure to obey these limits, as speeding is a common cause of accidents in Bangladesh.
5. Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in Bangladesh and can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of your driver's license.
6. Mobile phones: It's illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in Bangladesh. You can only use your phone if it's hands-free, such as through a speaker or Bluetooth headset.
7. Signaling: In Bangladesh, it's important to use your turn signals when making a turn or changing lanes. This helps to communicate your intentions to other drivers and can prevent accidents.
8. Honking: Honking your horn is an important means of communication on the roads in Bangladesh. It's used to alert other drivers to your presence and to indicate that you're about to make a turn or change lanes. However, excessive honking is discouraged and can result in fines.
9. Road safety: Bangladesh has a high rate of road accidents, and it's important to drive carefully and defensively to avoid becoming a statistic. Pay attention to the road ahead, be aware of other drivers and their actions, and be prepared to react to unexpected situations.
10. Motorcycle helmets: Wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is mandatory in Bangladesh. This rule applies to both the rider and the passenger. Failure to wear a helmet can result in fines and other penalties.
11. Car lights: It's mandatory to turn on your car lights during the day in Bangladesh. This is to increase visibility on the roads and reduce the risk of accidents.
12. Road signs: In Bangladesh, road signs are written in both Bengali and English. It's important to pay attention to these signs as they provide important information about road conditions, speed limits, and other restrictions.
13. Passing: When passing another vehicle, you must use your turn signal and make sure it's safe to pass before moving into the other lane. You should also be mindful of other drivers who may be attempting to pass you.
14. Overtaking: When overtaking, it's important to indicate your intentions with your turn signal and to make sure it's safe to do so before pulling out to pass. It's also important to return to your lane as soon as possible after overtaking.
15. Roundabouts: Roundabouts are commonly used in Bangladesh to control traffic flow. When approaching a roundabout, it's important to signal your intentions, yield to vehicles already on the roundabout, and then enter the roundabout when it's safe to do so.
16. Parking: Parking is restricted in certain areas in Bangladesh, such as near intersections and in front of fire hydrants. You should also avoid parking on the side of the road if it's obstructing traffic.
17. Emergency vehicles: When an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance or fire truck, is approaching with its sirens on, you must pull over to the side of the road to let it pass. Failure to do so can result in fines and other penalties.
18. Pedestrians: In Bangladesh, pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. When approaching a crosswalk, it's important to slow down and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
By following these rules and driving in a responsible and safe manner, you can help to reduce the risk of accidents and make your driving experience in Bangladesh a positive one.
