Dooring

It is not uncommon for Montréal drivers to have to park along a sidewalk, bike lane or bike path.

Whenever a driver or passenger opens a car door, it can be dangerous for passing cyclists.

As cyclists are required to ride on the extreme right of the road, this makes them all the more vulnerable to this manoeuvre.

As a driver, it is important that you make sure to open your car door safely by:

• Checking your rear view mirror.
• Using the hand farthest from the door to open it. That way, you will have to rotate your body, making it easier to check your blind spot.

Note that, under the Highway Safety Code (HSC), checking that opening the car door can be done safely is mandatory (liable to a fine of $200 plus applicable fees).

430. No person may open the door of a road vehicle
until the vehicle is stopped and he has ascertained that it can be done in safety.