I Just Learned From My Friend That You Should ONLY Open Your Car Door With Your Right Hand

The “Dutch Reach” is a simple solution that comes from the Netherlands, a country famous for its cycling culture. The idea is to use the hand farthest from the car door to open it.

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

Why does this work so well? This small, unusual action forces you to turn your body and look over your shoulder. When you turn, you automatically check your side mirror and the area behind your car, giving you a clear view of any approaching cyclists, scooters, or other vehicles.

While it might feel strange at first, using the opposite hand to open the door makes checking your surroundings a natural part of the process. “The act of turning your body automatically brings your head around, giving you a split-second view that can mean the difference between safety and disaster.” With practice, this new habit becomes automatic and feels completely normal.

Building a Safer Road Culture Together

The “Dutch Reach” is a great place to start, but making our roads safer requires more than just one person’s effort. It’s about creating a culture where everyone is mindful of others on the road.

This means that:

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