Vehicle Handling5 min read
Entering and leaving the vehicle safely
Checking the blind spot before opening the door, the Dutch reach, exiting on the pavement side and the procedure for leaving the vehicle.
Updated 13 June 2026
What this lesson covers
A gesture not as simple as it seems
Before getting in: check and anticipate
Leaving the vehicle: the Dutch reach
Children: always on the pavement side
In the event of a breakdown: exit via the passenger side
Leaving the vehicle: the full procedure
Adapting clothing and footwear
Recap
- Before opening a door: interior mirror, exterior mirror, blind spot, gradual opening.
- Dutch reach: open with the opposite hand to force the gaze rearward.
- Children: always get out on the pavement side, never on the traffic side.
- Breakdown (especially motorway): everyone exits via the passenger side (right).
- Leaving the vehicle: handbrake, gear on a slope, wheels turned, engine off, doors closed.
- Automatic gearbox: position P, check that the handbrake is firmly applied.
- Remove thick clothing before buckling the seatbelt.
- Suitable footwear: no heels, flip-flops or thick soles.
This lesson is part of the Pass
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Unlock with the PassSources: Sécurité routière (securite-routiere.gouv.fr) and service-public.fr.