'DUTCH REACH' New Highway Code rule could see a £1000 fine issued to anyone opening a car door wrong

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New Highway Code rules set to be implemented from 29 January includes a new rule to protect cyclists, know as the 'Dutch Reach', which could see drivers being fined up to £1,000 for breaking it.

The 'Dutch Reach' is a particular technique of opening a car door which requires a driver or passenger to use the hand furthest away to open it.

The idea is that while using the hand furthest away, a person is forced to turn their body towards the door, giving them a clearer view of any approaching cyclist or vehicle from behind.

The new section under rule 239 will now read: "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 motor cyclists passing you on the road, or to people on the pavement." People who cause injury to others with a car door could face a punishment in the way of a fine of up to £1,000.

Although no penalty points can be added to the offender’s licence.