Cycling accounts for more than 25% of daily travel in the Netherlands; thus, Dutch citizens tend to be more conscientious toward bike riders than Americans. With growing popularity of cycling and bike lanes, perhaps it’s prudent to learn from their example with the “Dutch Reach,” a subtle move for anyone seated on the left-hand side of a car.
While parking and preparing to exit the vehicle, Dutch drivers have learned to use their right hands to open their doors, even though their left hands are closer. This forces individuals to fully turn their upper bodies toward their exit, increasing the probability that they will spot anyone approaching in a bike lane.
Remember the slogan, “Reach, Swivel, Look, Open” — good safety advice regardless of your seat placement.