Final answer:
It is true that one should always check for approaching traffic when getting out of a vehicle to prevent accidents, such as 'dooring', and protect oneself and others. Checking mirrors and performing a shoulder check is a critical safety measure for all drivers and passengers.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, you should always check for approaching traffic when getting out of your vehicle. This action is a critical safety measure that helps prevent door-related accidents, commonly referred to as 'dooring', where an opened car door is struck by oncoming traffic, potentially causing injury to the person exiting the vehicle or passing cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians.
Before exiting a vehicle, it is essential to use the rearview and side mirrors, and perform a shoulder check to ensure no vehicles or bicycles are approaching. This precaution is particularly prudent in busy traffic conditions, near bike lanes, and in areas with reduced visibility, such as near school zones or construction sites.
Considering the scenarios presented, the importance of checking for traffic is emphasized. For example, a vehicle driving toward you, even if it is as far away as 28 meters, may reach you faster than anticipated, especially if it is speeding. Observing traffic can also be critical in emergency situations, as in the case of transporting a pregnant woman to the hospital, where safety remains a paramount concern despite the urgency. Also, pedestrian safety at busy intersections, where the installation of traffic signals could significantly reduce the risks, highlights the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and the motion of nearby traffic.