Children Getting Out of the Car: Choose the Kerb Side

Plan the exit before opening a door

A safe journey includes getting everyone out safely. After parking, think about which side of the vehicle opens towards the pavement and which side opens towards passing traffic. Highway Code Rule 239 says the side beside the kerb is safer for passengers, particularly children.

Choose the pavement side when it is safe

Let passengers leave on the side next to the kerb where practicable. This reduces their exposure to passing vehicles. It is still important to check the space outside the door: people may be walking along the pavement, and the surface may be uneven or obstructed.

Check before any door opens

Drivers and passengers must make sure they do not hit anyone when opening a door. Look around and use the mirrors to check for cyclists and other traffic. Keep the door closed while someone passes, and check again before opening it.

Help children build the habit

Before a child releases their seat belt or opens a door, make sure the vehicle is safely parked and you are ready to supervise. Ask them to wait for your instruction, check the pavement and move away from the kerb after getting out. Treat this as a calm routine rather than a rushed final step.

A simple reminder

Park safely, pause, check around the car and choose the kerb-side exit where possible. The pavement side is the safer choice; checking the immediate space remains essential.

Watch the short lesson

Watch the matching YouTube Short

Independent revision guidance. Source: GOV.UK Highway Code, Rule 239. Original AI-created educational illustration; recorded creator narration in the accompanying Short.