Opening the Door To Safety

This week, while walking along a pavement, I witnessed a moment that reminded me why small routines save lives.

A driver opened their car door without checking for danger.

A cyclist, approaching at speed, had to brake sharply, wobbling and nearly falling into the road. Thankfully, disaster was avoided — but only just.

However, such incidents are not rare.

They highlight the importance of observation, awareness, and structured habits every motorist must adopt.

Two routines that can help prevent all-too-common near misses stand out: the Dutch Reach Method and the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM).

The Dutch Reach method

The Dutch Reach is simple yet powerful:

– Use your furthest hand (right hand for UK drivers) to open the door.
– This movement naturally turns your body, encouraging you to look over your shoulder.
– In doing so, you check mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians, children, cyclists, or bikers.

Widely promoted in the Netherlands and now embedded in the UK’s Highway Code (Rule 239), this technique transforms a routine action into a lifesaving habit.

Every driver and passenger should adopt it, because one careless door opening can cause catastrophic injury.

And the beauty of the Dutch Reach lies in its simplicity.

It requires no technology, no special equipment, and no extra time.

This is a behavioural nudge that turns a potential hazard into a moment of awareness.

In countries where it has been widely adopted, collisions between car doors and cyclists have dropped significantly; hence, the UK’s decision to include it in the Highway Code reflects a growing recognition that small habits can have a national impact.

The cockpit drill: DSSSM

Before any journey, motorists must remember the Cockpit Drill, which can be simplified into DSSSM:

– D – Doors: Ensure all doors, including the boot, are securely closed. Remind passengers to check before opening.
– S – Seat: Adjust your seat for comfort, reaching hand and foot controls, and clear vision.
– S – Steering: Position correctly, ensuring free movement.
– S – Seatbelt: Fasten securely, checking passengers too. Unfasten carefully to avoid snapping back, a habit often overlooked even by experienced motorists.
– M – Mirrors: Adjust interior and exterior mirrors for maximum visibility. Mirrors are the driver’s third eye.

This drill is not just for learners; it is a lifelong discipline.

By embedding DSSSM into every journey, drivers prepare themselves for safe, controlled, and responsible motoring.

Instructors often teach it as a foundation, but too many motorists abandon it after passing their test.

Repetition is what makes safety second nature.

Positive habits matter

Road safety is not only about rules; it is about respect.

Cyclists and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users.

A sudden door opening can cause serious injury or even death.

Structured routines like Dutch Reach and DSSSM reduce reliance on memory alone, ensuring that safety becomes automatic.

– For cyclists: A single careless moment can force them into traffic.
– For pedestrians: Children darting past parked cars are at constant risk.
– For motorists: Habits prevent costly mistakes and protect against liability.

Safety is a civic responsibility, and every motorist shares the road with others; observation and preparation are acts of respect as much as they are acts of safety.

Education is the foundation of safer roads, and learners need to be taught these routines from the very beginning.

They should also be reminded that education and learning to drive do not stop at the driving test.

Experienced motorists also benefit from reminders, refreshers, and campaigns that reinforce structured habits.

A call to action

As a Road Safety Advocate and Teacher Trainer, I urge all motorists:

• Practice the Dutch Reach every time you exit a vehicle.
• Begin every journey with the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM).
• Share these routines with learners, family, and community — because safety spreads through awareness.

A near miss should never become a tragedy, and by embedding these positive habits, we can ensure safer roads for all.

Education, Education, and Education is the key to keeping everyone safe.