Traffic can be incredibly stressful, and while accidents are unfortunately common, many are preventable. One such hazard that often goes unnoticed is “dooring”—when a car door is suddenly opened into the path of a passing cyclist. This seemingly small action can lead to devastating consequences, including severe injuries or even death for the cyclist involved.

Dooring accidents usually happen when drivers or passengers fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening their doors. In busy urban environments where cyclists ride close to parked cars, the risk is especially high. Simple precautions, like using the “Dutch Reach” (opening the car door with the hand furthest from it), can force individuals to look behind and spot incoming cyclists, greatly reducing the chance of a collision.