6 Benefits of Having a Dash Cam

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Car dash cams are becoming much more common these days. That’s not only because they’re far more affordable than previously but also due to them being compact, easy to install and use, and able to record footage that can be extremely valuable.

Even the cheapest dash cams may record in high definition but it’s usually worth paying a little more so that the recorded footage gives the clearest possible picture of events, including being able to make out number plates and road signs.

If you’re still feeling unsure about whether to get a dash cam, this guide covers all the benefits that showcase why this is a worthwhile investment.

What is a Dash Cam?

A dash cam is a small camera mounted on the dashboard or windscreen of a vehicle, designed to record the road ahead (and sometimes behind). It continuously captures video footage while driving, providing evidence in case of accidents or other incidents.

Different Types of Dash Cam

There are different types of dash cameras. Here are some listed below.

• Front-facing dash cams: Record only the road ahead.
• Dual dash cams: Capture both the road ahead and the rear of the vehicle.
• Interior dash cams: Record inside the vehicle, often used by taxis or rideshare drivers.
• Smart dash cams: Equipped with Wi-Fi, GPS, and advanced features like collision detection.

Are Dash Cams Legal?

Yes, dash cams are legal in the UK. However, the camera must not obstruct the driver’s view, and users should comply with data protection regulations when sharing footage.

What are the Benefits of a Dash Cam?

There are many benefits of having a dash cam, including:

1. Avoiding Fines and Penalty Points

Traffic violations can result in points going on your driving licence, which will increase your insurance premiums, and possibly mean you incur a hefty fine. Dashcam footage, however, may prove that you’re innocent of the offence.

 

Using it, you may be able to persuade the police officer or parking attendant that no offence has been committed. Failing that, you may be able to present the video evidence in court to prove your innocence.

 

2. Helping with Insurance Claims

If you’re involved in an accident, it’s quite likely that you and any other driver involved will have quite different opinions of who is at fault. Dash cams and insurance claims go hand in hand. Submitting footage of the accident will give a more accurate view and may prevent you from being blamed for something that’s not your fault.

 

Many dash cams record constantly and so will have footage of the time immediately before and after the accident as well as the accident itself. If the other driver leaves the scene without exchanging details, possibly due to being uninsured, you will have a record of their car’s registration. You should be able to store this footage, so it’s not overwritten.

 

As well as being on constantly when the car engine is running, some dash cams also have a standby mode where the camera is switched on when movement is detected. This can therefore record break-ins, or your car being hit when parked, possibly enabling the culprit to be identified and apprehended.

 

3. Share Dash Cam Footage with Police

Dash cam footage can be submitted to the police as evidence in cases of accidents, dangerous driving, or other road-related incidents. Many police forces in the UK have systems for uploading footage online. This is a great way to expedite processing and remove confusion in the event of an incident.

4. Improved Driving

Fitting a dash cam will allow driving actions to be recorded so they can be reviewed later. It may, for example, record excessive acceleration or braking, or changing lanes without indicating. You may use this footage to assess and improve your own driving ability so that you’re less likely to make an insurance claim in future.

You can also use it to help a learner driver see their mistakes and be able to correct them. This is particularly important for young and inexperienced drivers who pay very high insurance premiums and can’t afford an increase resulting from them causing an avoidable accident.

Some dash cams have driving assistance features, such as speed camera alerts, lane departure warnings and alerts for possible forward collisions. By sounding an alarm, they can warn you of driving mistakes, help to prevent accidents and avoid increases in insurance premiums.

5. Reduced Insurance Costs

Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who have dash cams fitted. This is because they know the presence of a camera can improve driving habits and reduce accidents that result in insurance claims.

They can also be used to record incidences of insurance fraud, such as a ‘cash for crash’ incident where an accident is deliberately staged to extort money. These false claims do result in insurance premiums being increased generally so helping to prevent them by turning your footage over to the authorities can go some way to keeping premiums low.

6. Recording Road Trips

A forward-facing dash cam will record everything in front of the vehicle and, with a wide-angle lens, some of the things to the side as well. It is, therefore, perfect for recording the sights you see on a trip, and you can download, edit and save anything memorable so you can re-live your trip at a later date.

Features To Look For When Choosing a Dash Cam

When shopping around for a dash cam, it is important to look for features that meet your needs. Here are some features to look out for when you choose a dash cam.

• Video quality: Look for Full HD or 4K resolution for clear footage.
• Night vision: Essential for clear recording in low-light conditions.
• Wide-angle lens: Ensures a broader field of view.
• G-sensor: Automatically saves footage when an impact is detected.
• GPS tracking: Records location and speed data.
• Loop recording: Continuously overwrites old footage to save storage space.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Allows for easy transfer of videos to your phone or computer.

Are Dash Cams Enough?

While dash cams provide valuable evidence, they are not a comprehensive security measure, nor are they a deterrent for all incidents. It’s important to maintain good driving habits and have other safety measures in place, such as the Ghost II Immobiliser.

FAQs

Does a dash cam deter thieves?

A dash cam may deter some opportunistic thieves, especially if it’s visible, however they are not designed to keep your car secure.

Is it worth having a dash cam?

Yes, having a dash cam can be very useful for recording evidence in accidents. Dash cams can also lower insurance premiums, and give you peace of mind.

What is the downside of a dash cam?

Dash cams can be a distraction if not properly installed, may occasionally malfunction, and could raise privacy concerns if footage is shared improperly.

Do dash cams work when a car is parked?

Some dash cams offer parking mode, which records footage when motion or an impact is detected while the car is parked, but this feature often requires a continuous power source.