What to Do When You Hit a Nearby Car While Opening the Door?
2 Answers
If you hit another car's door while opening your own, you will be fully responsible for the incident. If only the paint is scratched, you can negotiate a settlement with the other party or file an insurance claim. However, note that if you file more than two claims within a year, your insurance premium may increase the following year. Below are methods to prevent hitting a nearby car when opening the door: 1. Avoid illegal parking: Do not park in restricted areas, and only open the door after the vehicle is fully parked. Otherwise, you will be fully responsible for any damage caused to people or other vehicles. 2. Check the mirrors: Before exiting, the driver should check the rearview mirrors to ensure no pedestrians or vehicles are passing before opening the door. If there are obstacles or the space is too narrow, avoid opening the door. 3. Dutch Reach method: When opening the door, first open it slightly by using the hand farthest from the door to push it gently while holding the door with the other hand. This technique, known as the "Dutch Reach," helps prevent the door from opening too wide. Check the surroundings again before stepping out. 4. Close the door immediately: After exiting, close and lock the door to prevent accidental opening due to sudden incidents.
Just the other day, I had this happen to me—I opened my car door in a mall parking lot and 'thud,' it hit the neighboring car. I immediately got out to check for any marks on their door, and luckily, there was only a faint scratch. I quickly grabbed a notepad from my car, wrote down my contact info, and tucked it under their windshield wiper. I also took photos of the scene as evidence. Honestly, I was pretty panicked at the time, but driving away would have been a hit-and-run, which could lead to serious trouble. Later, the owner contacted me and was really understanding, saying it was no big deal. Still, I sent them 500 yuan to cover polishing costs. Since then, I’ve made a point to park in wider spots and learned the 'Dutch Reach' method—using my right hand to open the door, which naturally turns my body to check the side mirror for approaching traffic.
