I was taught (in the Netherlands) to hold the door with your right hand while you release the latch with the left. The benefit is not only turning the torso to see cyclists, but also holding on to the door in case there's a gust of wind.

The latter has saved the neighbor's car door a number of times.

This is a new law in illinois starting 2019

http://q985online.com/governor-signs-the-dutch-reach-law-tha...

> which makes your head turn and improves odds of spotting a cyclist.

It doesn't because, when you turn your head, your view behind you will be blocked by the B-pillar of the car. It's actually better to look in the side mirror to check for cyclist before opening the door.

It's actually better to teach cyclists to not ride within 6 feet of a parked vehicle.

That's amazingly simple and effective. Awesome!