Motorists across Surrey and the wider United Kingdom are being cautioned about a potentially costly oversight when exiting their vehicles, with experts warning that improper door opening could result in fines of up to £1,000 and significant insurance repercussions.
Substantial Penalties for Dooring Incidents
Lee Caroline, a prominent car expert at Surrey-based vehicle recycling specialist LJC Autospares, has issued a stark warning to all road users regarding the dangers of carelessly opening car doors. According to current Highway Code regulations, drivers can face substantial four-figure fines for what is commonly known as 'dooring' incidents, where a door is opened into the path of an approaching cyclist.
"Even if the vehicle is stationary at the time of the incident, the offence carries serious consequences," explained Caroline. "If a cyclist sustains injuries after a door is opened into their path, the responsible party could be looking at a maximum fine of £1,000. What many drivers don't realise is that they remain liable even if a passenger or child in their vehicle opens the door, potentially leading to complicated insurance claims and premium increases."
The Dutch Reach Technique
Safety organisations including the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) strongly advocate for the adoption of the 'Dutch Reach' method when exiting vehicles. This technique involves using the hand furthest from the door to open it, which naturally prompts the driver or passenger to turn their body and look over their shoulder for approaching cyclists or other road users.
The Dutch Reach method follows five distinct steps:
- Reach across with your far hand
- Swivel your body towards the window
- Look back over your shoulder for approaching traffic
- Open the door slowly and carefully
- Exit the vehicle while facing oncoming traffic
Broader Highway Code Changes
Nicholas Lyes of the RAC commented on the wider context of recent Highway Code amendments, stating: "The fundamental objective behind these proposed changes is to enhance road safety for all users. The revisions emphasise our collective responsibility to ensure mutual safety on our roads—whether we're travelling by foot, bicycle, or motor vehicle."
Lyes further highlighted: "Many of the adjustments introduced to the Code, including the recommendation to employ the Dutch Reach technique when exiting vehicles and exercising caution when charging electric vehicles, represent sound safety practices. We also welcome the new guidance concerning the safe passing of roadside workers, as our patrols and recovery personnel face daily risks while assisting motorists."
Communication Challenges
Despite these important safety updates, research conducted by the RAC reveals concerning statistics about driver awareness. Only 49% of motorists have consulted the Highway Code at any point during the last decade, highlighting a significant communication gap that needs addressing to ensure these vital safety messages reach all road users effectively.
As road safety continues to be a priority across Surrey and nationwide, experts emphasise that adopting simple techniques like the Dutch Reach could prevent serious accidents, protect vulnerable road users, and help drivers avoid substantial financial penalties and insurance complications.
