Welcome to the Vancouver Lexicon. Its purpose is to pin down the patois of the City of Vancouver by recording its toponyms, nicknames, slang terms, personalities, places, and other Van-centric things. Full A-Z here.

Dutch Reach | safety, transportation | A move in which the driver of a parked car uses their right hand (opposite the door handle) to open their door, thus having to turn their shoulder and look to see if a cyclist is in danger of being hit. Though taught in driver’s ed classes in the bike-crazy Netherlands (hence the name), the wise practice remains uncommon elsewhere, including Vancouver.

Usage: “I know it sounds a little dirty, but if you come with me to my car I will buckle you up and show you the Dutch Reach…”