1. A method for identifying objects in proximity to a host vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a target object in proximity to the host vehicle; measuring longitudinal and lateral characteristics of movement of the target object classifying the target object, the classification including a determination as to whether or not the object is a motor vehicle, rather than an individual that is not in a motor vehicle, based at least in part on both: a first comparison of one or more longitudinal characteristics of the movement of the target with a first predetermined threshold and a second comparison of one or more lateral characteristics of the movement of the target object with a second predetermined threshold that is different from the first predetermined threshold, using a processor; wherein the target object is determined to be a motor vehicle, rather than an individual that is not in a motor vehicle, when: an absolute value of a relative lateral velocity of the target object with respect to the host vehicle is less than the first predetermined threshold; and an absolute value of a relative longitudinal velocity of the target object with respect to the host vehicle is less than the second predetermined threshold; and providing a notification, a braking or throttle control action, a corrective steering action, and/or a differential braking action if the target object is classified as a motor vehicle.