The new technique that could stop cyclists colliding with car doors

Road safety authorities in South Australia are hoping a simple new technique will dramatically reduce the number of cyclists colliding with car doors.

Dubbed the "Dutch Reach", the manoeuvre involves a driver using their left hand to open their door, allowing them to turn to a position where they can look over their shoulder for an oncoming cyclist.

The technique is from the Netherlands, where it's become part of the nation's driving test.

Cycling great and two-time Olympic gold medallist Anna Meares is backing the new campaign after having her fair share of close calls.

"It can inflict a lot of serious injury and that's what we're trying to minimise, and hopefully eliminate," Meares said.

More than 200 cyclists have reported being hit in South Australia over the past five years - a figure which could climb as temperatures start to rise and people jump on their bikes.

Road safety minister Chris Picton said the move takes "half a second" and has been used across Europe for decades.

"This really is about trying to encourage preventative action," he said.

Drivers who are caught doing the wrong thing will be hit with a fine and demerit points.

Watch the full news bulletin on 9Now