Most of us open our car doors without a second thought. It’s an automatic gesture—park, unbuckle, grab the handle, push. But behind that ordinary motion hides a danger that injures thousands every year. Cyclists, scooter riders, and even passing drivers can be hit in an instant by what’s called a “dooring accident”—when a car door suddenly swings open in their path. The irony is that most of these accidents aren’t caused by recklessness, but by habit. And as one police officer once told me, “It all comes down to which hand you use.” That’s when I first heard of the safety rule now recognized around the world: always open your car door with your right hand.
At first, it sounded trivial—how could switching hands make any real difference? But the logic is deeply rooted in human nature and body mechanics. When drivers use their left hand, the motion is quick and thoughtless; the body stays still, and the eyes often remain forward. But when you use your right hand, you’re forced to twist your torso, turn your shoulders, and look over your left side—exactly where danger approaches. That single movement transforms a mindless action into a built-in safety check. It’s known as the Dutch Reach, a practice long taught in the Netherlands, where cycling is part of everyday life and road awareness is ingrained in every driver from day one.
The Dutch Reach isn’t just a clever trick; it’s an internationally endorsed safety standard now promoted in the U.S., the U.K., and across Europe. In the Netherlands, it’s part of the driving exam—because it works. Studies and accident reports show that this simple twist of the body can prevent countless collisions. When you open your door this way, you’re automatically scanning mirrors, checking blind spots, and protecting anyone who might be passing close to your vehicle. It’s a habit so small you could teach it to a child, yet powerful enough to save a cyclist’s life.
In a world where our roads are busier and more crowded than ever—with bikes, scooters, delivery riders, and cars all sharing narrow lanes—every ounce of awareness matters. The next time you park, take a breath before stepping out. Use your right hand. Feel your shoulder turn. Glance behind you. It takes less than a second, costs nothing, and could prevent a tragedy. I never used to think twice about how I opened my door, but now it’s a ritual—one that reminds me that safety often begins with the smallest, quietest choices. Reach with your right, and you just might save a life.