Reports claim that only around 18% of UK drivers have a dashcam installed in their vehicle. These handy motoring tools are able to record footage of your journey, and can be used when making claims following an accident to prove who is at fault.
However, car warranty providers, ALA Insurance have warned of lesser known laws around using a dashcam on the road that could land you with a big fine ahead of National Dash Cam Day (5th August).
Car expert Dawn Cranmer, from ALA Insurance comments: “The introduction of dashcams into the motoring market has helped to simplify claims and ensures motorists are able to defend themselves following an accident.
“If you’re tempted to install a dashcam in your vehicle, there are a few rules to be aware of to ensure it’s used safely and correctly.”
Obstruction of view
Like other electronic devices used in the car, such as satnavs, dashcams must be strategically placed to ensure they do not obstruct the driver’s view. If you’re caught with a dashcam placed in the way, you could be fined and receive up to three points on your licence. It’s also illegal to mount a dashcam onto the rearview mirror in case of obstructing the view from behind your vehicle.
Experts suggest the best place to install a dashcam is at the top centre of the front windscreen, to ensure it has the best visibility of the road.
Shared vehicles
If you drive a shared vehicle, you must inform other vehicle users of the dashcam installation. Some dashcams not only record video from outside, but can also record video and sound inside the vehicle too. If you don’t have permission from the other vehicle users to install a dashcam, this could be a breach of privacy and you could face a big fine.
Driving abroad
Laws regarding dashcams vary significantly from country to country. While some nations welcome their use, others have strict regulations or outright bans. For example, in Austria, publishing dashcam footage which shows individuals or registration numbers is illegal and you could face a fine of up to €10,000.
Dawn recommends always checking the local laws of your destination before using a dashcam abroad.
Improper footage use
Dawn warns of improper use of footage obtained through a dashcam and advises to never post any recordings online. Not only is this a breach of privacy, but it could also obstruct legal proceedings if you’re using it to make a claim.
Likewise, your own dashcam footage can be used against you if you’re suspected of breaking the law or driving recklessly.
When using dashcam footage to support a claim, it’s vital to handle it correctly, ensuring that date and time stamps are accurate.
Disclosing to insurers
Another consideration before installing a dashcam is the policy from your insurer. Some will require you to disclose if you have a dashcam fitted, and it must be in line with the policy agreement. Not abiding by this could result in your policy being cancelled.
Dawn comments: “Dashcams can be a great comfort for those who want to add more security to their journey, but be sure to adhere to these guidelines and do further research into dashcams before installing to ensure it’s a helpful asset, rather than a hindrance to your drive.”
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