If you’ve ever crossed paths with someone with a dash cam, I guarantee they told you how good they are.
They are small cameras that continuously record the view through a vehicle’s front windscreen, offering an extra layer of security and an unbiased eyewitness in the event of an accident.
But if you’ve never used a dash cam before, it can be a tricky concept to wrap your head around.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of dash cams to reveal their benefits, drawbacks, and everything in between.
We talk about:
Dash cams record the view around your car. Whether you’ve got it looking out the front windshield or the rear, they provide drivers with an extra layer of security.
Initially adopted by police forces, dashcams have become popular among everyday drivers to help deter criminals and for insurance purposes.
Modern dash cams come packed with technology such as high-definition recording, wide-angle lenses, and even night vision.
Dash cams are a relatively simple technology. They work by using your vehicle as a power source, usually through a 12V socket or your car’s fuse box, and recording whenever the car is on. All you need to do to install a dash cam is plug it into your vehicle and attach it to your windscreen.
From here, you don’t even need to press stop/start; the camera will do it itself. Saved recordings can also be automatically uploaded to the cloud for safekeeping (on some versions).
If you’re looking for a camera that stays on when your car is turned off, some specific models can accommodate this. Your car may have an always-on port that will power your camera at all times. It’s recommended that you use this sparsely to protect your battery.
If you need to go back through your footage, most dash cams have a removable SD card that can be plugged into your computer. Simply copy the files you need to your computer.
If your dash cam is more advanced and can connect to the internet or Bluetooth, you may be able to upload videos via your phone or another device.
The price of a dash cam depends on how advanced you want it. For a basic camera, you’ll look at anywhere between £25 and £60. These models will typically record the view in a lower resolution.
Here’s one we’d recommend from Halfords. It includes a 720p resolution, a 120-degree viewing angle, and an intelligent parking mode. It doesn’t include an SD card.
If you want a camera with advanced features, prices can range from £50 to £400. Here, you’ll start to get features such as HD resolution, GPS, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Here’s an advanced dash cam on Halfords. It features a 4K resolution, an extreme weather mode, a three-inch touchscreen panel, nighttime recording, and a 140-degree wide viewing angle.
If you are thinking about getting a dash cam, here’s what you need to consider:
Pros:
- Evidence in the event of an accident - The main reason most people get a dash cam is to provide evidence if the car is involved in an accident. The recordings are solid evidence that can be provided to your insurance company when making a claim. If you’re not at fault, this could speed up the process and save you money on repairs.
- Encourage safer driving - Dash cams can help encourage those behind the wheel to always drive safely, legally, and with due consideration. If they are not, footage recorded by a dashcam can be used as evidence.
- Reduce insurance premiums - Some insurers will offer reduced premiums if you have a dash cam on your car. According to Uswitch, some providers give a discount of up to 20% if you use a dash cam.
- Memories - One thing that always gets forgotten with a dashcam is that it captures everywhere you’ve been. Suppose you’ve been on a memorable road trip with your family or want to see that fantastic sunset again; your dash cam will have it. Just make sure you were abiding by the laws of the road at the time…
- Security - With some dash cams recording while the car is turned off, their presence can help deter criminals looking to break into your car. You can also access them remotely and from the privacy of your home, meaning you have the opportunity to catch a criminal in the act.
Cons:
- It may be illegal - In some countries, like Austria and Portugal, having a dash cam fitted to your car is illegal. Failure to comply can result in fines or, in some extreme cases, a prison sentence.
- Privacy - Personal privacy is a trending topic at the minute, and dashcams are included in this conversation. Complications arise regarding other driver’s privacy and the fact that dash cams are an invasion of this.
- Expensive - If you’re looking for a good dash cam, it can set you back upwards of £100. Some people might not be able to afford it.
- Distraction - In some cases, dash cams can be a distraction for the driver. If the camera obstructs your view of the road, you could get a £200 fine and six points on your license. According to the Highway Code, you must ensure the dash cam doesn’t block your view.
- Encourage theft - I know I am completely against a previous point, but sometimes, a dash cam might encourage robbers. If you park in a poorly lit area, having an expensive camera on display in your car could encourage a robber to act.
Dash cams offer a unique combination of safety, security, and accountability for all drivers on the road. They’re great for insurance purposes and, in some cases, save you a lot of time and effort.
While they do come with their own set of considerations, in my opinion, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, making them a worthwhile investment.
Looking for more motoring advice? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produces a range of leasing guides, such as Tips on Keeping Your Vehicle Secure and Lease Car Etiquette.
We are also one of the UK’s largest car leasing brokers, offering a range of leasing deals to suit your every need. Whether you’re looking for an electric vehicle or a used lease car, we’ve got you covered.
For more information, check out our leasing deals or call us on 0345 811 9595.
