Ever heard of „dooring“ – accidents?
This is the careless opening of the vehicle door, where it end
for cyclists to serious falls with head and leg injuries or
even with death.
Unfortunately, the so-called dooring accident still happens very frequently.
According to §14 of the StvO (Highway Code Germany), anyone who gets on or off a
vehicle must behave in such a way that no other road user is endangered.
Each driver and passenger is obliged to get on or off to
watch out for anybody coming from behind. For children or people who need help,
an adult should exit the vehicle first and
assist in opening the car door.
How should the car door be opened?
Always open the car door crosswise. If you sit on the driver’s side, that means
apply the door opener with your right hand. The other way round on the passenger side.
So turn your shoulder and look over your shoulder.
Drivers should also use their mirrors and open the door, when no one is
visible in the mirror and over the shoulder.
Make this opening technique automatic so that you
don’t even think of opening the door without having secured.
Ask other vehicle occupants to be careful as well.
Also, remember to leave a good distance from cyclists while overtaking them,
as they suddenly could swing out, if a car door suddenly opens.
