Remco Evenepoel teams up with Belgian Post Office to combat dangerous dooring incidents

In Belgium, a significant road safety campaign has been initiated following an alarming incident involving cyclist Remco Evenepoel. The two-time Olympic champion suffered severe injuries in a cycling accident on December 3, when he collided with the open door of a parked Belgian Post Office van. This mishap resulted in multiple fractures, including a dislocated collarbone, torn ligaments, and bruised lungs, raising concerns about the safety of cyclists on the roads. This injury sustained by Evenepoel was not just a personal tragedy but also a critical reflection of the broader issues faced by cyclists due to 'dooring' accidents, a common occurrence where a cyclist is struck by a car door opened unexpectedly. In response to this incident, Evenepoel collaborated with the Belgian Post Office to launch the 'Remco Reflex' campaign, targeting the dangerous practice of dooring. The campaign was officially announced in the same week of Evenepoel's accident. The goal is to enhance awareness among drivers, reminding them to check for cyclists before opening their vehicle doors, thus potentially preventing further accidents. Over 300 cyclists are reportedly injured each year in Belgium due to similar incidents. As part of this initiative, the Belgian Post Office introduced a sticker with Evenepoel's image, which will be placed on the door windows of their vehicles. This serves as a daily reminder for drivers to be vigilant and to utilize techniques like the Dutch Reach, which encourages drivers to use their opposite hand when opening doors, thereby forcing them to look over their shoulder for approaching cyclists. As the campaign gains momentum, it highlights the importance of mutual respect among all road users. By working together, cyclists and drivers can create a safer environment for everyone on the roads. Evenepoel’s dedication to this cause is especially commendable, as he aims to educate the public on the real dangers that exist for cyclists, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution. The initiative underscores the growing recognition of the hazards cyclists face daily and the necessity for comprehensive measures to safeguard their well-being when navigating urban environments. Ultimately, the proposed 'Remco Reflex' initiative not only aims to bring attention to the specific risk of dooring but also advocates for a comprehensive culture of road safety that benefits all users. Evenepoel's experience has opened a crucial dialogue about the responsibilities of all those who use the road, pushing for reforms that could significantly reduce unintended accidents in the future. As discussions about road safety continue, the hope is that collaborative efforts like this initiative will become more widespread and effective, ensuring that tragic incidents like Evenepoel's accident do not repeat in the future.