Most people open their car door the same way they always have—without thinking. But one simple habit, popular in Europe and spreading worldwide, can prevent serious accidents and even save lives.
It’s called the Dutch Reach—and it means opening your car door with your right hand.
Why does that matter?
Every year, thousands of cyclists are injured or killed in “dooring” accidents, when a parked car’s door swings open directly into their path. These crashes are sudden, violent, and often impossible to avoid. The worst part? Drivers usually never saw the cyclist coming.
Using your right hand changes that.
When you reach across your body to open the door, your torso naturally rotates. That movement forces you to look over your shoulder, check your mirror, and scan for cyclists, scooters, cars, or pedestrians—without consciously thinking about it. It turns safety into a reflex.
This technique works because it:
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Eliminates blind-spot reliance
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Slows you down just enough to check
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Dramatically reduces cyclist and motorbike injuries
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Works for passengers too (right-side passengers use their left hand)
The Dutch Reach comes from the Netherlands, where cycling is a way of life and children are taught this habit early. As a result, dooring accidents are far less common.
This tiny change costs nothing, takes seconds, and can save a life.
Turn. Look. Open.
Teach it to others—because sometimes the smallest habits make the biggest difference.
