A motorcyclist was seriously injured on 30/4 after a car door was opened carelessly on National Highway 31, Chu Ward. The motorcyclist was riding near a line of parked cars when a driver suddenly opened their door without checking. The motorcyclist collided with the door and fell to the road. A vehicle with a dashcam stopped in time.

The driver responsible for the accident and local residents quickly assisted the injured motorcyclist. The Bac Ninh Provincial Police Department announced it is investigating the incident according to regulations.

Drivers must exercise caution before opening car doors to prevent such accidents. The principle involves opening the door just enough to check behind the vehicle, ensuring the space is clear of pedestrians or other vehicles, before fully opening it to exit. Additionally, when opening the left-side door, drivers should use their right hand to grip the door. This allows for quick closure if danger arises, and the same applies in reverse for the right-side door.

Unsafe door opening leading to accidents carries significant penalties under Vietnamese law. According to Decree 168 on road traffic penalties, a driver's unsafe opening of an oto door resulting in an accident can incur a fine of 20-22 million dong and a deduction of 10 points from their driving license.

The technique of using the right hand to open the left door, known as the Dutch Reach, is safer than using the left hand. *Photo: Uncashd*

Pham Hai