A driving instructor has shocked people after warning them that they could be opening their car doors wrong following a recent rule change.
TikTok account @thecompletetheorytestkit, known for sharing advice and guidance to learner drivers as they prepare for their theory test, recently left drivers stunned after informing them that they could be opening their doors wrong.
In the clip, which has gained more than 3,100 views, an instructor advises that people shouldn't be opening their car doors with their right hand as it could affect their visibility when exiting the vehicle. Instead, drivers are advised to use their left and use the "Dutch Reach Technique".
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"You're now advised to use your left hand when opening the door rather than your right," she explained. "You have more control over the car, especially if it's windy. As well as being able to see clearly if anything's coming."
The woman even demonstrated how to do it on camera, showing how she turns her whole body to open the car with her left hand, while looking out of the side window for oncoming traffic. TikTok users have immediately begun sharing the rule in videos across the platform.
Viewers have since taken to the comments over the clip to share their opinions. One user said: "Use your mirrors lol." Another added: "I have long arms it doesn’t make a difference for me… but u can just check your blind spot before getting out."
A third commented: "As a cyclist I think this rule should be compulsory teaching for all ages. So many accidents happen because people just don’t look.."
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Meanwhile, a fourth wrote: "Have always done this x." However, according to Driving Test Success, using the wrong hand doesn't usually effect your test.
They wrote: "There’s not really a point in the test where you’d have to exit the vehicle (in most cases). This is just recommended in general!" However, they warned people to be aware that there is a "blind spot" when checking mirrors alone.
The Dutch Reach method was introduced to the Highway Code last year after years of campaigning.
Cycling UK say the method helps drivers look for oncoming cyclists. And campaigner Jeff Boulton believes the rule could save the lives of countless people. His son Sam tragically died in 2016 after he was knocked into the path of traffic.
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