What is the correct procedure for opening a vehicle door while exiting?

Opening the vehicle door only as much as needed to exit is an important safety practice for several reasons. This method minimizes the risk of obstructing traffic and reduces the chance of striking a cyclist, pedestrian, or another vehicle when exiting the car. By carefully controlling how far the door opens, the driver or passenger can ensure that they assess their surroundings before fully extending the door into a potentially hazardous area.

This approach fosters a heightened awareness of the environment and enhances overall safety during the exit process. It helps prevent accidents and injuries that could result from either a wide-opening door or exiting too quickly without proper checks. Adhering to this procedure is part of safe driving habits and is essential in traffic incident management practices, where situational awareness plays a vital role in minimizing risks.