If You Drive or Ride in a Car Often, This Simple Habit Could Save a Life

If you drive a car or even ride in one regularly, what I’m about to share could genuinely save someone’s life. And I’ll admit — I had never heard of it before. It’s such a small change in behavior, but it makes a huge impact. A police officer friend of mine mentioned it during a casual conversation, and ever since, I’ve never opened a car door the same way again.

The advice is surprisingly simple: always open your car door with your RIGHT hand — even if you’re the driver. Not your left. It may sound strange at first, but there’s a very important reason behind it.

It’s Called the “Dutch Reach” — and It Can Prevent Tragedy
This method is common in parts of Europe, particularly in the Netherlands — hence the name “Dutch Reach.” The idea is straightforward: instead of using your left hand (which is natural for drivers in countries where people drive on the right), you use your right hand to open the door.

That small change forces your body to rotate slightly, turning your shoulders — and in doing so, you naturally look over your left shoulder toward oncoming traffic or the bike lane.

This simple motion gives you a chance to spot any cyclists, pedestrians, scooter riders, or passing vehicles before you swing your door open. Without it, most people open the door blindly — a mistake that causes thousands of avoidable accidents every year.

The Hidden Dangers of “Dooring” Accidents
In traffic safety, there’s actually a term for this: dooring. It refers to when someone in a parked car opens their door directly into the path of a cyclist or motorcyclist, causing a collision. These incidents can lead to serious injury, and sometimes even death.

Dooring is especially common in cities where cycling is popular. Often, it’s not about carelessness — it’s just that the person didn’t look behind them before opening the door. We’re so used to stepping out that we do it automatically — and too often, we realize the danger only after it’s too late.

My police officer friend said that dooring incidents are among the most easily preventable accidents — and yet they still happen daily. That’s why law enforcement and road safety advocates are spreading the word about the Dutch Reach.

Why the Right Hand Makes All the Difference
Here’s what the Dutch Reach looks like in practice:

You’re sitting in the driver’s seat.

Instead of using your left hand (which doesn’t require turning), you reach across your body with your right hand to open the door.

This motion causes your torso and head to turn to the left — toward oncoming traffic.

You automatically check your side mirror, then your blind spot.

Only then do you open the door, fully aware of your surroundings.

It builds a safety check right into the simple act of getting out of the car.

Not Just for Drivers — Share It with Everyone
This isn’t just a driver’s habit — passengers in both front and back seats should get into the routine as well. If you’re exiting on the curb side, the risk may be lower, but if you’re on a street with traffic or a bike lane next to you, the danger is still real.

It’s especially important to teach this to:

Teen drivers

Rideshare passengers (Uber, Lyft)

Children learning road safety

Older adults who may be set in their habits

The rule is easy to remember: “Use your far hand — not the one closest to the door.”

Why Police Emphasize This Simple Habit
My friend wasn’t just sharing a personal tip. Police officers are trained to be hyper-aware of traffic risks and the small habits that keep people safe. In areas with high cycling traffic, some departments have even added the Dutch Reach to driver education programs.

This isn’t a social media trend or some random online tip. It’s a researched safety practice supported by public health experts, road safety organizations, and law enforcement agencies around the world.

A Simple Habit That Lasts a Lifetime
The Dutch Reach takes just a second or two more than the usual way. But that second could mean the difference between an ordinary day — and a trip to the hospital.

I made the change myself. It felt a bit unusual at first, but within a couple of days, it became second nature. Now I do it without thinking. Honestly, I wish I had learned about it years ago.

So next time you’re parked and ready to exit your car, remember this simple rule:

Use your right hand to open the door. Always.

Look back. Then step out.

It might save someone’s life — maybe even your own.