If a parked car door opens into your path, what is the safe maneuver?

• A. Brake hard in place.
• B. Steer away from the opening door and maintain a safe distance.
• C. Follow the door closely to minimize distance.
• D. Lane-change into the opposing traffic quickly.

Answer: (B)

When a parked car door opens into your path, the safest move is to steer away from the opening and maintain a safe distance. This gives you room to react if the door swings fully open and reduces the chance you'll collide with it. Braking hard in place can surprise riders behind you and doesn’t give you extra space to avoid the door; following the door closely is clearly risky, and changing lanes into oncoming traffic is highly dangerous and not the right or legal move. By smoothly steering away from the door and keeping a cushion of space, you maintain control and increase your chances of a safe pass if the door opens suddenly.