Drivers may have noticed that their visibility has been seriously reduced when they are behind the wheel, as modern car designs often have this safety flaw.
Which? identified the problem, highlighting that car roofs and door pillars have been modified beyond recognition over recent years.
As a result, motorists find their visibility more restricted as large quantities of metal get in the way of being able to see the road and other drivers, it stressed.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents reveals that around one per cent of collisions are caused by blind spots every year, leading to around 25 fatalities.
Which? Car editor Richard Headland commented: "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."
He emphasised that this remains a particular concern among vulnerable road users, notably pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
Research conducted by experts at the magazine found that the Smart ForTwo Coupe ranks top for driver vision with a visibility score of 64.8 per cent.
At the other end of the spectrum was the Porsche Boxster, which polled less favourably with a visibility score of just 31.4 per cent.
Other models rated poorly include the BMW Z4 and Lexus 250C, which received scores of 38.7 per cent and 39.4 per cent respectively.
Mr Headland explained that the scores given by Which? show it is possible to create a stylish car with good visibility.
Earlier this month, the consumer site found that an increasing number of people are shopping online for cars, which could be more beneficial than people may think.
It noted that many vehicles are cheaper online and that they are subject to Distance Selling Regulations, meaning the buyer has added legal protection. |
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