Opening a car door is such a routine act that most people never think twice about it — yet this small motion can cause major accidents if done carelessly. Safety experts recommend a subtle shift known as the “far-hand reach” — for U.S. drivers, that means using your right hand to open the door instead of your left. This simple change naturally turns your body, prompting you to glance over your shoulder and check mirrors and blind spots before stepping out.
By reaching across your body, you create a built-in reminder to look for oncoming cyclists, pedestrians, or vehicles. This slight movement greatly reduces the risk of “dooring” accidents — incidents where a car door suddenly opens into the path of a cyclist or passing car. Organizations such as the National Safety Council and road safety advocates across Europe and North America endorse this easy, no-cost habit as one of the most effective ways to prevent avoidable injuries.
The far-hand reach technique is especially valuable in busy cities and parking areas where visibility is limited and traffic moves close to parked cars. It takes no extra time yet significantly improves awareness. Simply use your right hand, turn your head as you open the door, check for movement, and exit slowly. Over time, it becomes instinctive — a quiet act of mindfulness built into your daily routine.
Though it may seem minor, this small habit can make a life-saving difference. Each time you leave your car, that brief pause to look around protects not only you but everyone sharing the road. The far-hand reach is more than a driving tip — it’s a reminder that safety often begins with the smallest, most thoughtful actions.