Studies have shown a 60% decrease in traffic accidents when dashcams are used.
What are Dashcams?
Dashcams are simply cameras that attach to the front (and in some cases, the rear) of a vehicle. They record a vehicle’s driving on mini SD cards as well as online (if subscribed) in real-time. They can record a driver’s daily commute, road trips, or even just pulling out of your driveway. The recording uses both video and audio.
Why Would I Want to Use One?
The benefits of dashcams are far-reaching and extend beyond just capturing thrilling viral videos; they offer significant advantages for both individual drivers and society in general.
Insurance Claims
One of the most significant factors for having dashcams is for legal and insurance reasons. Dashcam footage can serve as a record of events, helping law enforcement and insurance companies determine fault and assess claims.
This can be particularly valuable in hit-and-run cases or situations where there are no eyewitnesses. In many cases, insurance fraud attempts are thwarted by clear and undeniable video footage.
The video below is a perfect example. Although an accident was avoided, just think if the driver didn’t have enough time to stop! He would have crashed right into the bus. In this case, the driver was alert enough to just drive around the bus, but had the situation been different, the bus company would have had no case and a settlement would have ensued.
Education
Another advantage of dashcams is the opportunity they provide drivers the ability to monitor their driving habits. By reviewing their footage, drivers can identify and correct unsafe practices such as distracted driving, speeding, or tailgating. This is especially useful when teaching someone how to drive safely, such as your son or daughter.
Off the Road
These devices can provide peace of mind by recording potential vandalism that may occur while the car is parked. You would need a camera that has a parking mode feature that activates when the vehicle is parked.
If you want to go up a level of sophistication, many Tesla models have cameras that work while the vehicle is in drive and when it is parked. In the Y model, six cameras are mounted around the vehicle. This feature can be particularly valuable in urban areas where there are high rates of vehicle crime.
What are Some of the Technologies of Dashcams?
Most of these cameras provide HD video, which provides a great deal of clarity and resolution.
Some dashcam models offer advanced features like lane departure warnings, forward collision alerts, and driver fatigue detection. This helps contribute to improved road safety and traffic management.
In addition to enhancing safety, dashcams offer a range of other benefits to drivers.
Other Reasons to Own a Dashcam?
Do you travel? For long-distance drivers and enthusiasts who love cross-country driving, dashcams are invaluable for documenting your journeys. These devices can capture breathtaking scenery, memorable encounters, and maybe even unexpected wildlife encounters. It’s like having a visual diary of your trips. This footage can also be shared with your family and friends, providing a glimpse of the world through the driver’s eyes.
What Do Dashcams Cost?
The costs can range from around $100- $200 or more, depending on the technology that they provide.
Summary
In conclusion, dashcams have become indispensable tools for drivers, offering a wide range of benefits that encompass safety, accountability, and peace of mind. As technology improves, dashcams will become even more sophisticated, further enhancing their utility and value to drivers, law enforcement, and society in general.
Patricia Scanlon is a traffic ticket attorney who services clientele in Long Island, NYC, and throughout NYS.