Opening a car door might seem like the most routine part of driving, but experts say one small change in how you do it could make the roads significantly safer. The “far-hand reach” — a method recommended by safety organizations worldwide — involves using your hand farthest from the door to open it. For U.S. drivers, that means using the right hand when exiting. It’s a minor adjustment, yet it naturally turns your body, prompting you to glance behind and check for cyclists, pedestrians, or passing cars before stepping out.

This instinctive body rotation is what makes the far-hand reach so effective. By reaching across yourself, you automatically align your vision with your blind spot, helping to prevent “dooring” — accidents caused when a car door swings open into the path of a cyclist or another vehicle. The National Safety Council and road safety advocates highlight this simple motion as one of the easiest, most cost-free ways to reduce injuries and collisions in busy areas.

The habit works everywhere — from crowded downtown streets to suburban parking lots — giving you a built-in reminder to slow down and look around. It’s a practical tool for both drivers and passengers, especially in environments where visibility is limited. Over time, it becomes second nature, turning a small motion into an everyday act of awareness.

While it takes only seconds, the far-hand reach can make a life-saving difference. This mindful movement adds a layer of protection for you and those around you, proving that safety doesn’t always come from technology or complex systems — sometimes, it starts with a single, thoughtful habit.