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Should you get a dash cam for your car?
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Are you wondering if you should jump on the dash cam bandwagon? We’ve got a list of why these nifty gadgets are becoming all the rage and if they're worth getting for your car.
- Installing a dash cam could help you keep your no claim discount.
- Dash cams should be set up properly to avoid fines.
- They should only be used as a back-up to safe driving.
You might already be familiar with dash cams - or you've just installed one in your car. What began as bulky camcorders used by traffic police, has changed into discreet dash cam technology. Dash cams are great for lots of motorists, as they provide crucial evidence for police reports and insurance claims.
Lots of drivers are getting dash cams to protect themselves from 'crash for cash' scams, when criminals cause accidents on purpose to make false insurance claims. These devices can protect your no claims discount and provide evidence against insurance fraud. So, it’s no wonder lots of drivers have started to install these devices!
Will installing a dash cam help with your car insurance?
Installing a dash cam can be a smart move for your car insurance. It might help you get discounts and protect your no claim discount.
A dash cam can be invaluable for customers during accident claims, especially when providing evidence in hit-and-run incidents. If your insurer can obtain the offending vehicle's registration number, they can trace the culprit and make a third-party claim, often preserving your no claim discount.
So, it could be worth installing a dash cam to get car insurance discounts and to help protect your no claims bonus.What else are dash cams useful for?
Well, looking beyond the insurance benefits, dash cams are also useful in the law.
Several UK police forces say that dash cam footage has helped convict dangerous drivers. What’s more, North Wales Police's Operation Snap encourages the public to share their video evidence of driving offences. Thanks to this initiative, offenders could end up facing driver awareness training, fines, or even court action. Your dash cam might just help make the roads a safer place!
If you’re considering a dash cam for its benefits, here’s a summary of some important things to keep in mind:
- Check with your provider - many insurers offer savings for drivers with dash cams.
- Make sure your dash cam meets quality standards for evidence - high-quality footage is important in protecting yourself against insurance fraud.
- Install the dash cam properly - you could be fined if you’ve not set it up right!
If you’re thinking about filing a claim, check our article on how to submit an insurance claim.
Dash cams are a nifty bit of kit, but do you need to install one in your car?
How do you install a dash cam?
Now that you’ve got a good sense of why dash cams are useful, you need to know how to install it properly. If you don’t, you could end up with a fine. To set up your dash cam correctly, make sure you follow these tips:
- Place the dash cam behind the rearview mirror or on the passenger side of the windscreen.
- Position the dash cam at the bottom of the rear windscreen.
- Keep the dash cam clear of windscreen wipers.
- Tidy cables along the windscreen and keep clear of airbags and other safety features.
Follow setup tips above to get the most out of your dash cam.
Can you only use dash cams on the road?
Well, they’re not only just great for recording any potential incidents when you’re driving, dash cams can also be used as a security device when your car is parked. The dash cam will record and store images or videos so think of it as a CCTV for your car. If anyone clips your wing mirror for example, you’ll have it on video.
What are the disadvantages of getting a dash cam?
If you’re new to using a dash cam, it can be a distraction—especially if you’re fiddling with the settings or adjusting its angle while driving. Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be dangerous, so stay focused. Otherwise it could lead to an accident.
Even though dash cams can help prove an accident wasn’t your fault, they can also show that you were to blame. If you’ve got footage that clearly shows you made a mistake but don’t submit it, you could be seen as committing insurance fraud.
Remember, there are always two sides to every story. Dash cams can sometimes provide a one-sided view of an accident, but might not show the full situation. Plus, if you’re considering sharing a clip on Facebook before the police have handled it, you risk having your case thrown out of court.
Will a dash cam make you a safer driver?
Dash cams support safe driving by preventing scams and providing evidence— but they shouldn’t replace good driving habits.
Drivers should focus on improving their skills and not rely on technology. When used as a helpful tool, dash cams can be great, but they should never replace common sense while driving.
In a nutshell, a dash cam can be a smart addition for safety and insurance perks, but just remember to stay focused on the road and drive safely.
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