Is a Dash Cam a Good Idea?

With all the latest news regarding police cams, many Uber and taxi drivers have also turned to dash cams to record passenger behavior. However, regular drivers are now joining the trend as a way to document anything from accidents to road rage incidents. If you’re on the ropes as whether to buy a dash cam, here are a few considerations to help you make a decision.

Accident Footage

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are over 5 million vehicle accidents every year in the U.S. What makes this even more problematic is that motorists often argue over who is at fault, causing insurance claims to become more difficult and often causing your rates to rise if found at fault. With a dash cam, you can eliminate this gray area by having footage of who caused the accident. If another motorist points the finger, you have to proof to exonerate yourself of any fault or crime.

Protect Against Insurance Fraud

Some dishonest people are always looking at ways to scam the system. One of those ways is through insurance fraud. Despite the fact that it puts them in grave danger, fraudsters throw themselves in front of traffic, and if you hit them, you’re on the hook for the bill. Dash cams help protect you against these people, especially when they hurl themselves in front of your vehicle. You can show that not only were they at fault, but you did everything you could to prevent the accident.

Keeping an Eye on Younger Drivers

If you have a teen driver, there’s no shortage of worry when they’re behind the wheel. Most of the time, it’s easy to trust your teen, but if you have a son or daughter that’s a bit wild, a dash cam is a godsend. Not only does it act as a deterrent when they’re on the road, but you can also review the footage to ensure they’re driving safely and within the boundaries of the law and your rules. Without it, you’re leaving it entirely up to chance.

Documenting a Trip

Aside from the negative aspects of dash cam footage, these cameras are also perfect for documenting your life. If you’ve ever wanted to take a road trip, they’re a handy device to catch gorgeous scenery, people you meet, or other things you see along the way. The best part is that you never have to take your eyes off the road, keeping you safe the entire time you’re behind the wheel.

Downfalls

There are many positive aspects of purchasing a dash cam for your car, but there are also potential pitfalls. Most footage you capture is well within the confines of the law, but you should remain vigilant about recording audio. In many states, you need to tell passengers or other people they’re being recorded to avoid a potential lawsuit. When in doubt, go only with video and no audio.

Now that you know both the good and the bad of equipping your car with a dash cam, you can make an informed decision on whether it’s the perfect fit for you.