Traffic can be incredibly stressful, and while accidents are unfortunately common, many are entirely preventable. One often-overlooked hazard is “dooring”—when someone opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. What may seem like a small, everyday action can have devastating consequences, ranging from serious injuries to fatalities.
Dooring usually occurs when drivers or passengers fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening their doors. In bustling urban areas, where cyclists often ride close to parked cars, the risk is especially high. A simple habit, like the “Dutch Reach”—using the hand farthest from the door to open it—naturally forces you to turn and look behind, spotting any passing cyclists and dramatically reducing the chance of a collision.
Real-life experiences bring the danger into sharp focus. One person recalled a friend opening a car door without looking, narrowly missing a cyclist speeding by. That near-miss became a vivid reminder of how a single lapse in awareness can have life-altering consequences.
Preventing dooring accidents takes both mindfulness and education. Drivers, passengers, and cyclists all have a part to play—staying alert, practicing safe habits, and respecting shared roadways. Public safety campaigns and cycling education can further reinforce these behaviors.
Ultimately, a moment of carelessness can change lives forever. By adopting small, simple safety measures and remaining aware of our surroundings, we can make the roads safer for everyone—especially vulnerable cyclists navigating through traffic.