Traffic is already a major source of stress, and with so many vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists sharing the roads, accidents are bound to happen.

But not all accidents are unavoidable. One surprisingly common and often overlooked danger is called “dooring”—when someone opens a car door into the path of a cyclist.

It may sound minor, but dooring can lead to serious injuries and, in some cases, even be fatal.

A Frightening Close Call

I’ll never forget a moment that brought this risk into sharp focus. A friend of mine parked on a busy street and opened his door without checking behind him. A cyclist was just seconds away from colliding with it.

Luckily, they swerved in time—but it was far too close. That moment stuck with me. It was a clear reminder of how easily this type of accident can happen—and how easily it can be prevented.

The Simple Fix: The Dutch Reach

One of the easiest ways to avoid dooring is by using a technique known as the Dutch Reach:

• If you’re the driver, use your right hand to open the door.
• If you’re the passenger, use your left hand.

This simple action naturally forces your body to twist and look over your shoulder, giving you a clear view of any oncoming cyclists or traffic before you swing the door open. It might feel strange at first, especially if you’re used to using your nearest hand. But with a little repetition, it becomes a habit—and it can save lives.

A Shared Responsibility

Preventing dooring isn’t just on individual drivers or passengers. We all have a part to play in making roads safer:

City planners can install protected bike lanes and increase signage in high-risk areas.

Schools can incorporate road safety lessons that include bike awareness and the Dutch Reach.

Neighborhoods and communities can help by spreading awareness through campaigns and social media.

One Small Habit, One Big Impact

Right hand. Turn. Look.

It’s such a small change, but it could mean the difference between a safe ride and a trip to the emergency room—or worse. Let’s make this a habit, share it with others, and help make our streets safer for everyone.