The Growing Challenge of Visibility for Drivers
It’s no secret that driving has become more complex in recent years, and a new study suggests that the issue may be linked to changes in vehicle design. According to findings from a U.S. survey, drivers are facing greater difficulty seeing clearly from their seats, raising concerns about safety on the roads.
The research, conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlights how modern technology and design choices have impacted driver visibility. Features like blind-spot monitoring systems have led automakers to reduce the amount of glass in vehicles, which can limit the driver’s ability to see the surrounding environment. This shift, combined with higher bonnets and tailgates, creates more blind spots that can obstruct the driver’s view.
Over the past 25 years, the forward blind zones of six top-selling passenger vehicles have increased significantly. During this time, pedestrian and cyclist fatalities have also risen sharply. David Harkey, president of the IIHS, expressed concern over these findings. He stated, “The across-the-board decrease in visibility for this small group of models is concerning. We need to investigate whether this is a broader trend that may have contributed to the recent spike in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.”
The data shows that vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, are facing higher risks than they have in over four decades. While larger vehicle sizes and taller front ends may contribute to the growth of blind zones, there is still limited understanding of how visual obstructions play a role in this trend.
To better understand the extent of the problem, researchers from the Department of Transportation (DOT) used the IIHS method to measure occluded and visible areas at ground level within an 180-degree arc around the driver. They focused on visibility at distances of 10 meters and 20 meters.
In the 10-meter radius closest to the vehicle, visibility decreased in all six models tested over time. SUVs showed the most significant drop, with up to a 58% reduction in visibility within that range. Other vehicles experienced smaller reductions, ranging from 7% to 19%. At longer distances, between 10 and 20 meters, some models saw increases in visibility while others saw decreases.
The study specifically looked at several popular models, including the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford F-150, Honda Accord and CR-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota Camry. All of these vehicles showed a decline in outward visibility over time.
One of the most dramatic changes was observed in the Honda CR-V. In a 1997 model, researchers measured 68% visibility, but by 2022, that number had dropped to just 28%. This stark contrast highlights how vehicle design has evolved over the years and the potential impact on driver safety.
As car manufacturers continue to innovate with technology and design, it’s essential to consider the implications for visibility and safety. The findings from this study emphasize the need for further research into how these changes affect drivers and other road users. Ensuring clear visibility remains a critical factor in reducing accidents and protecting vulnerable individuals on the road.
