Sweeping radar devices and methods for detecting objects in the vicinity of a vehicle are provided. The sweeping radar device includes a transmitting device, receiving device, and a processor. The method involves transmitting an electromagnetic wave, receiving the wave, converting the wave to an electromagnetic signal, processing the signal to generate an output criterion, interpreting the output criteria and triggering at least one response by a vehicle, which may be an affirmative response, such as a siren or flashing lights, or may be a passive response.