Dashcams have become indispensable tools for modern drivers, offering a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond mere video recording. These compact devices, mounted discreetly on vehicle dashboards, serve as silent witnesses to the ever-unfolding drama of the road. Beyond capturing breathtaking scenery or unexpected encounters, dashcams provide invaluable evidence in case of accidents or disputes, offering clarity and peace of mind in uncertain situations. Moreover, they serve as proactive safety measures, encouraging responsible driving behaviors and enhancing overall road awareness. From insurance claims to legal proceedings, the advantages of dashcams are undeniable, making them an essential addition to any vehicle in today’s fast-paced world.
There is a need for caution though. UK motorists are being warned of a little-known dash cam mistake that could end up invalidating their insurance. Dash cams have surged in popularity in recent years, with the RAC recently estimating that 2.9 million people in the UK are currently using one.Footage gleaned from dash cams can be a valuable tool in protecting drivers from fraudulent claims, theft, or recording illegal driving behaviours. Some insurance providers also offer lower policy premiums for motorists who have a dash cam fitted.
But Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Van Leasing, warns that if you’ve got a dash cam hard-wired into your vehicle – rather than simply plugged-in to your car’s cigarette lighter socket or USB port – you need to notify your insurer.
He explains: “It’s frustrating to think that doing something proactive to protect yourself from a claim, or even theft, might come back to bite you, but motorists need to be aware of the legalities concerning dash cams.
“Some of the more expensive dash cams on the market are wired directly to the car’s battery, rather than simply plugging-in to a socket in the vehicle’s cabin.
“Being hard-wired means the dash cam offers added protection and can remain switched on, even when the engine isn’t running, so that it continues to record after the owner has vacated the driver’s seat.
“While a plug-in dash cam is considered a simple accessory in the eyes of most insurers, a hard-wired dash cam is deemed to be a ‘modification’ to your vehicle, and you need to notify your insurer that you’ve got one fitted.
“If you don’t, and the worst does ultimately happen, you might not be covered against a claim – even though you could have clear evidence to prove any wrongdoing.”
When asked for clarification by Select Car Leasing, leading car insurance comparison platform Confused.com confirmed that if a dashcam is wired to the vehicle and becomes a permanent feature, it would need to be declared to an insurer. A plug-in dash cam wouldn’t need to be declared.
There are other rules concerning dash cams that motorists need to be aware of.
The Highway Code states that windscreens and windows must be kept clear and free from obstructions at all times.
If your dash cam is positioned on your windscreen in a way that impedes your vision, you could be hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine. And if police deemed the obstruction to constitute driving without due care and attention, fines could rise to £1,000 while you’d face three penalty points on your licence.
Dash cam footage can also be used as evidence of wrongdoing in court so long as it shows adequate detail, such as vehicle number plates.
Select Van Leasing’s Graham Conway adds: “Dash cam footage is a two-way street – in that it could be used as evidence for you, against another driver, or as evidence for your own poor driving behaviours.”
Dash cam manufacturer Nextbase also runs the National Dash Cam Safety Portal (NDSP), which allows motorists to upload footage to report a road traffic incident to the relevant police force.
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