windshield survey

[ wind-sheeld sur-vey, win- ]

noun

1. an assessment of something in a community, such as housing, infrastructure, or proximity to hospitals, that is made quickly by driving through the assessment area: Compare walking survey ( def ).

   A windshield survey can be done relatively easily and inexpensively, but can’t capture much detail.

   The advocacy group did a windshield survey of the city to determine how many unhoused people were sleeping on the streets.

Word History and Origins

Origin of windshield survey¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

The Transportation Department’s street assessment unit has six inspectors who document road imperfections by conducting a “windshield survey” from their cars.

From New York Times