Express Car Leasing share some advice before fitting a dash cam.
Enhancing Road Safety with Affordable and Convenient Dash Cams.
Lets highlight the potential of dash cams in significantly improving road safety. These devices, now more affordable, compact, and user-friendly than ever before, offer a multitude of benefits for drivers.
Although dash cams have long been popular in the commercial sector for vans, lorries, and emergency vehicles, high costs have prevented widespread adoption among motorists. However, recent advancements in technology and a surge in popularity have led to a decrease in price and size. Now, dash cams are accessible to the average driver, with prices starting as low as £30.
Many are familiar with the viral footage captured on dash cams from other countries. While the UK boasts high driving and safety standards, collisions still occur, with differing accounts from drivers involved. This is where dash cams come in, providing insurers with clear and indisputable information.
By installing a dash cam, safe and cautious drivers can protect their no-claims bonus and safeguard against dangerous drivers, road rage incidents, fraudulent "crash-for-cash" schemes, and minor parking incidents. GEM has prepared a helpful set of questions and answers for fitting and using a dash cam.
Here are some key details about dash cams:
- What is a dash cam?
A dash cam is a video camera mounted on a car's dashboard or windscreen. Powered by the vehicle's 12v system, it continuously records the road and traffic ahead. - How does it store footage?
Dash cams typically store video footage either on internal memory or a removable card, such as an SD card. When the memory is full, the camera overwrites the oldest files, ensuring uninterrupted recording. - Do I need to inform others about recording with a dash cam?
In the UK, if the car is solely yours and not used for business purposes like taxi work, it is legal to use a dash cam without notifying others. - How many dash cams are in use in the UK?
Approximately one in five vehicles in the UK is equipped with a dash cam. - Where should I fit my dash cam?
To maintain clear visibility, it is best to fit a dash cam in the center of the windscreen, behind the rear view mirror. - What are the advantages of a dash cam?
As fraudulent insurance claims increase, dash cams provide crucial evidence of incidents and those involved. They ensure accurate recollection of events and the actions of other motorists, discouraging dishonest claims. - Can I save on insurance with a dash cam?
Some insurance companies offer discounts (typically 10%-25%) for installing a dash cam. It's worthwhile to inquire about potential savings. Additionally, dash cams are not considered vehicle modifications, so there is no need to inform insurers. - Can I share my dash cam footage with the police?
Yes. The National Dash Cam Safety Portal allows you to upload footage to any police force in England and Wales. The possibility of a similar portal in Police Scotland is currently under review. - What offenses are suitable for dash cam submissions?
Dash cam footage is valuable evidence for offenses such as dangerous driving, driving without due care and attention, mobile phone use, seat belt violations, red traffic light violations, contravening solid white lines, and instances where the driver lacks proper vehicle control. - Do I need to go to court if I submit dash cam footage?
Typically, when submitting footage, you complete a brief statement answering pre-formatted questions. Less than 2% of people submitting dash cam footage end up attending court. However, if you're not prepared for the possibility, it's recommended not to submit the footage. - Could dash cam footage be used against me?
Yes. If you're involved in a collision or stopped by the police for an offense, law enforcement may seize your dash cam or request footage for review.
Dash cams play a significant role in enhancing road safety. By installing one, you can ensure your word no longer stands alone in incidents, providing valuable protection and peace of mind.
