Germany plans to make door-warning systems mandatory in new cars to protect cyclists from sudden door openings, reducing Dooring accidents as vehicles pull away or park.

The measure specifically targets cyclists riding close to parked cars, who face heightened risk when a door is swung open without warning.

Advocacy groups, including the national cycling association, back mandatory door-warning systems and automatic stop features, arguing these have been needed for years.

Public attention has grown after high-profile Dooring incidents, including the death of actress Wanda Perdelwitz in Hamburg, highlighting the real-world risk.

Current data gaps persist, as there is no separate police category for Dooring accidents and official statistics on frequency remain unreliable.

The government has flagged the issue as high priority, signaling potential regulatory changes on the near horizon.

Doored accidents contribute to cyclist fatalities, with 2024 recording over 440 cyclist deaths in road traffic and a ten-year rise of about 11 percent, according to federal statistics.

The initiative is being driven by Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder and backed by the bicycle lobby, with officials describing it as a high-priority matter.

Dooring incidents often force abrupt evasive maneuvers by cyclists, risking serious injuries or collisions with other vehicles.

The plan has been welcomed by cycling groups and their political managing director, who emphasise long-standing calls for door-opening warnings and automatic stopping systems.

Public safety guidance includes the Dutch Reach method, advising opening doors with the hand opposite the door to better detect oncoming cyclists.

Proposed measures include compulsory door-opening warnings and automatic stopping systems, according to a government ministry statement.