A method for operating an advanced driver assistance (ADAS) system of a motor vehicle includes a vehicle controller receiving, from side and end cameras mounted to the vehicle, camera signals indicative of real-time images of outboard-facing side and end views of the vehicle. The controller determines a region of interest (ROI) inset within each end/side view within which is expected foreign objects and/or hazards. These ROIs are analyzed to detect if a foreign object/hazard is present in the vehicle's end and/or side views. Responsive to detecting the foreign object/hazard, movement of the foreign object/hazard is tracked to determine if the foreign object/hazard moves towards or away from the vehicle's underbody region. If the foreign object/hazard moves to the underbody region, control signals are transmitted to the vehicle's propulsion and/or steering system to automate preventative action that prevents collision of the vehicle with and/or removes the foreign object/hazard from the underbody.