As a driver, I have always been concerned about staying safe on the road. No matter how careful I am, there is always a risk of being involved in an accident. That’s why I decided to invest in a dash cam. In this article, I will explain how dash cams work, the benefits of having one, the types of dash cams available, key features to consider when buying one, and the best dash cams on the market.
Introduction to Dash Cams
A dash cam, or dashboard camera, is a small device that is mounted on the dashboard of a car and is used to record the view through the windshield. Dash cams can be powered by the car’s battery or a separate battery, and they can be set to record continuously or only when triggered by an event such as an accident or sudden stop.
How Dash Cams Work?
Dash cams work by recording video footage of the road ahead. The footage is usually stored on a memory card, and some dash cams also have built-in GPS which can track the car’s location and speed. Most dash cams have a loop recording feature, which means that when the memory card is full, the oldest footage is automatically overwritten by new footage.
Benefits of Having a Dash Cam
There are many benefits to having a dash cam. Firstly, it can provide evidence in the event of an accident. The footage can be used to prove who was at fault, and can also be used to show the extent of any damage that was caused. Secondly, dash cams can help to prevent insurance fraud. There have been cases where drivers have staged accidents in order to make false insurance claims, but a dash cam can provide evidence that the accident was not genuine. Finally, dash cams can also be used to capture unexpected events such as meteor showers or unusual weather phenomena.
Types of Dash Cams
There are several types of dash cams available, including single-lens, dual-lens, and rear-view mirror dash cams. Single-lens dash cams are the most common and record the view through the front windshield. Dual-lens dash cams have a second camera that records the view through the rear windshield, and some also have a built-in screen which can display footage from both cameras. Rear-view mirror dash cams replace the car’s rear-view mirror and have a camera that records the view through the front windshield.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Dash Cam
When buying a dash cam, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, resolution is important. A higher resolution means that the footage will be clearer and easier to see. Secondly, field of view is important. A wider field of view means that more of the road will be captured on camera. Thirdly, night vision is important. A dash cam with good night vision will be able to capture clear footage even in low light conditions.
Best Dash Cams on the Market
There are many dash cams on the market, but some of the best include the Viofo A119, the Garmin Dash Cam 55, and the BlackVue DR900S. The Viofo A119 has a high resolution and a wide field of view, and is also affordable. The Garmin Dash Cam 55 has a small and discreet design, and also has voice control. The BlackVue DR900S has 4K resolution and built-in Wi-Fi.
Installation Tips and Tricks
Installing a dash cam is a relatively simple process. Most dash cams come with a mount that attaches to the windshield, and the camera simply clips onto the mount. It’s important to make sure that the camera is positioned correctly and that the cables are neatly routed. Some dash cams also come with adhesive pads for a more permanent installation.
How to Use Footage from Your Dash Cam in Case of an Accident
In the event of an accident, the footage from your dash cam can be used as evidence. It’s important to make sure that the footage is saved and not overwritten, and to also make a backup copy. The footage can then be provided to the police or insurance company as needed.
Legal Considerations When Using a Dash Cam
In most countries, it is legal to use a dash cam. However, there are some legal considerations to be aware of. For example, in some countries it is illegal to record audio without the consent of all parties involved. Some countries also have restrictions on where dash cams can be mounted. It’s important to check the local laws before using a dash cam.
Conclusion How Dash Cams Work
In conclusion, now you know how dash cams work, you will realize how a dash cam is a small device that can make a big difference. It can provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident, and can also help to prevent insurance fraud. When choosing a dash cam, it’s important to consider factors such as resolution, field of view, and night vision. There are many great dash cams on the market, and installation is a simple process. Just remember to check the local laws before using one.
Doreen