This week, Public Radio International shared an interesting post about the Dutch Reach. An often over-looked dangerous obstacle for cyclists is the possibility of getting ‘doored’. When drivers and passengers exit the car without looking first, they have the ability to wipe out a cyclist sharing the road with a car. This driver/passenger oversight can cause extensive damage to the cyclist even resulting in fatality. So how do you combat this challenge?

In the Netherlands, the Dutch Reach is not only a taught practice, but it is tested for during the Driver’s Exam. This Outside Magazine video explains how the Dutch Reach could save lives:

Ready to try it out? Next time you open the car door, use the furthest hand from the door and swivel your body so as to look back before opening.