Drivers have been urged to follow key Highway Code rules that could help prevent nearly five road collisions every week, with rulebreakers warned of hefty fines.

Fresh figures from the Department for Transport revealed that approximately 2,500 crashes over the past decade have resulted from vehicle doors being opened into the path of cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

The alarming statistics have now prompted renewed calls for drivers to embrace the "Dutch Reach" method when exiting their vehicles.

This straightforward manoeuvre requires using the hand furthest from the door to open it, naturally causing the body to turn and encouraging a shoulder check for approaching road users.

Road safety advocates explained that this basic precaution, which takes seconds to complete, could prevent serious injuries and potentially save lives.

The technique works by requiring drivers in right-hand-drive vehicles to use their left hand to open the door, while passengers would use their right hand.

This action forces the body to rotate, making it virtually impossible to exit without first glancing over the shoulder to spot any approaching traffic.

Originally developed in the Netherlands, where cycling infrastructure and awareness are deeply embedded in road culture, the method has gained international recognition as an effective safety measure.

Drivers are encouraged to follow the Highway Code and use the Dutch Reach method | GETTY

Road safety experts note that the technique is particularly crucial in urban areas where cyclists frequently navigate alongside parked vehicles, often within the "door zone" where sudden openings pose the greatest risk.

The Highway Code explicitly addresses this safety concern through Rule 239. It states: "You MUST ensure you do not hit anyone when you open your door. Check for cyclists or other traffic by looking all around and using your mirrors where you are able to do so.

"You should open the door using your hand on the opposite side to the door you are opening; for example, use your left hand to open a door on your right-hand side.

"This will make you turn your head to look over your shoulder. You are then more likely to avoid causing injury to cyclists or motorcyclists passing you on the road, or to people on the pavement."

The Dutch Reach was included in the Highway Code update two years ago | AA

Motorists who neglect proper checks before leaving their vehicles could face potential penalties reaching £1,000.

Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at Trackdays.co.uk, said: "Nearly 2,500 collisions in 10 years is a shocking figure for something so avoidable.

"The Dutch Reach takes seconds to do, but it could prevent injuries and even save lives. We'd love to see more people make it a habit every time they get out of the car.

"We should all be doing our bit to keep Britain's roads safer. Something as small as how we open a door can make a huge difference."

Thousands of cyclists are seriously injured across the UK every year | GETTY

The Highway Code update in April 2025 reinforced various parking and waiting regulations, demonstrating ongoing efforts to enhance road safety through clearer guidance.

Beyond the specific door-opening requirements, Rule 239 includes comprehensive safety measures, such as proper parking positioning, engine shutdown procedures, and passenger exit protocols.

These regulations collectively aim to create safer streets for all users, whether travelling by car, bicycle, motorcycle or on foot.