You have parked your car on the left-hand side of an active urban road and prepare to get out. To safeguard passing cyclists, you intend to use the 'Dutch Reach' method. In what order should you execute the following actions to exit safely?
- 1Check your interior rear-view mirror and driver-side door mirror for approaching traffic and cyclists.
- 2Reach across your body using your far hand (the hand furthest from the door) to hold the door latch.
- 3Turn your head to look over your right shoulder through the side window into the blind spot.
- 4Open the door slightly to make a final visual check before opening it fully to step out.
Answer
The correct sequence begins with checking the interior and side mirrors, followed by reaching across with the far hand to the door handle, turning your head to check the blind spot over your shoulder, and finally opening the door slightly before exiting.
According to Highway Code Rule 239, drivers and passengers should use the 'Dutch Reach' to avoid opening doors into the path of cyclists. The sequence begins with an initial mirror check, followed by reaching across with the hand furthest from the door. This movement naturally rotates the upper body so the driver can look directly over their shoulder into the blind spot. Finally, the door should be opened slightly to make a final check before opening it fully to exit.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Applying the Dutch Reach technique to prevent door collisions with cyclists (Highway Code Rule 239)
Estimated Time:1m 0s