Road Transport Department Warns About 'Hidden' Door Handles in Vehicles

The Road Transport Department (RTD) has issued a warning regarding vehicles equipped with electronically controlled or 'hidden' door handles. The warning follows incidents abroad where vehicle doors failed to open in emergency situations.

International road safety organizations have recorded instances of these door handles malfunctioning after collisions or fires, making it difficult for passengers to exit the vehicle.

In some incidents, a drop in battery voltage caused the handles to become inoperable. European safety organizations have pointed out that existing standards do not adequately ensure that doors can be opened after an accident or power outage.

The RTD advises owners of vehicles with such handles to consult the owner's manual for the manual release mechanism and to regularly check the battery condition. They should also check if their vehicle is subject to a recall through the manufacturer's official website or the EU Safety Gate announcements.

In case of malfunction, citizens can contact the Road Transport Department at [email protected].