The Dutch Reach is not just a clever tip or a neat trick your local officer happened to mention. It is a fundamental practice that has been taught for years in the Netherlands, a country where cycling is a huge part of everyday life. In fact, it is reportedly a required part of the driving license test for new drivers there.
Because of its proven effectiveness, the method has been officially promoted internationally by many different road safety organizations. It has also been included in official driving manuals and educational materials in countries like the United States and the UK. It is a universally accepted best practice for reducing collisions.
Why This Habit Matters to Everyone
Today, cities everywhere are seeing a major increase in people using all forms of transportation, including more cyclists, e-scooter riders, and motorcycles. The roads are getting busier, and we are all sharing that space.
A split second of inattention when opening your door is all it takes to cause a painful collision that could seriously injure another person and change their life forever. Simply switching hands when you open your door can drastically reduce that risk for everyone on the road.
The best part about adopting this safety measure is that it doesn’t take long to master. Once you start doing it, it quickly becomes second nature. Before you know it, you won’t even think about it—you’ll just automatically twist and check before opening your door.
I will happily admit it: I’d never once thought about how I opened my car door. But now, thanks to the simple lesson from a police officer, I’ll never do it the same way again. From now on, it’s a commitment to right hand only.
It is a small habit change, but one that can have a huge impact. The next time you put your car in park, remember the rule: reach with your right, save a life.
