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.
Personal experiences often highlight the seriousness of such dangers. One person recalled a moment when a friend opened their car door without looking, narrowly missing a cyclist who was passing by. This near-miss served as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and responsible behavior when exiting vehicles.
Preventing dooring incidents requires both education and mindfulness. Drivers, passengers, and cyclists all have roles to play—being alert, following safe practices, and respecting shared roadways. Public awareness campaigns and cycling safety education can further reinforce these habits.
Ultimately, a moment of carelessness can result in lifelong consequences. By adopting small safety measures and staying aware of our surroundings, we can make the roads safer for everyone—especially for vulnerable cyclists navigating through traffic.
