We're being told to learn a new way to open vehicle doors, in a bid to reduce road accidents.

It's called the Dutch Reach, and it's common in the cycling-heavy Netherlands.

The idea is to use the farthest hand from the door - the left hand if driving - to open it, forcing someone to swivel their torso and look behind for anything approaching.

Cycling Action Network's Patrick Morgan told Chris Lynch how it works.

"Use your far hand to reach for the door, swivel, look out and back, and open the door slowly. By using your far hand, it reminds you that you need to look out for cyclists or cars that are coming past."

Morgan said it's just like learning to look both ways when crossing the road, and should be taught to kids and adults in the same way.

"We're learning from the Dutch who have the safest cycling in the world. I think it's a sensible idea that has merit that New Zealand should look at, and challenge people to try it next time your in a car."

LISTEN TO PATRICK MORGAN TALK WITH CHRIS LYNCH ABOVE