Who goes there? Car visibility getting worse

Motorists are not only battling with snow and ice impairing their visibility, as research reveals the cars themselves are hindering their view.

Which? Car magazine carried out a survey and found that all-round visibility is generally worse than 15 years ago.

This is often because car roof and door pillars have been strengthened and become bigger as a consequence.

"It's vital to make sure a car protects its occupants in a crash, but accident research - and common sense - suggest that crashes are more likely if visibility is reduced," commented Which? Car editor Richard Headland.

Poor visibility puts vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists at particular risk, he added.

Top of the magazine's survey for visibility was the Smart ForTwo Coupe, while the Porsche Boxster scored the worst.

Which? Car is calling for manufacturers to ensure a balance between crash safety and visibility when designing vehicles.