Why Every Driver Should Have a Dash Cam Fitted to Their Car

Dashcams, once an obscure gadget only used by a few tech-savvy drivers, have gained remarkable popularity in the UK over the last few years. As a driving school that prides itself on promoting safe and informed driving, we’ve identified several reasons why everyone should consider fitting their car with a dashcam.

Here are 4 great dash cams we like –

1. Evidence in the Event of an Accident

The most immediate advantage of having a dashcam is its ability to record events leading up to and during an accident. If you find yourself in a road traffic collision, having video evidence can be crucial in establishing who was at fault.

A 2019 report from the RAC showed that 25% of drivers believe investing in a dashcam would give them peace of mind if they were involved in an accident. Furthermore, having clear footage can speed up insurance claims and ensure you’re treated fairly.

2. Protect Against Crash-for-Cash Scams

“Crash-for-cash” scams, where fraudsters intentionally cause an accident to blame the other driver and make a fraudulent insurance claim, have been on the rise in the UK. The Insurance Fraud Bureau estimates that these scams cost the UK insurance market over £340 million annually. A dashcam can act as a deterrent against these scammers or provide evidence if you’re targeted.

3. Record Undisciplined Driving

You never know when you might witness dangerous or undisciplined driving. By having a dashcam, you can record and report these incidents to the authorities, potentially preventing future accidents or reckless driving behaviour.

4. Encourage Safe Driving

Knowing you’re being recorded can have a positive psychological impact on how you drive. It encourages accountability and can serve as a personal reminder to always adhere to the best driving practices.

5. Capture Unexpected Moments

From meteor sightings to rare wildlife crossings, dashcams often capture unexpected and sometimes beautiful moments. These recordings can be shared on social media, or even with news outlets in some cases.

6. Monitor Your Car When Parked

Many modern dashcams come with a parking mode. If your car gets bumped or scratched while you’re away, the dashcam can activate and record the incident. This can be particularly beneficial in car parks where minor accidents or deliberate acts of vandalism can occur.

7. Save on Insurance Premiums

A few insurance companies in the UK offer discounts to drivers who have dashcams installed. They recognise the value of having video evidence in the event of a claim, which can expedite the process and potentially save the insurer money.

8. Aid in Driving Feedback

For those learning to drive or even for experienced drivers, reviewing dashcam footage can be a great way to get feedback. It allows you to identify and learn from your mistakes, making you a better and safer driver in the long run.

9. Useful for Professional Drivers

If you drive for a living, whether it’s delivering goods or people, a dashcam can be invaluable. It not only provides the benefits mentioned earlier but can also serve as evidence in case of disputes with customers or employers.

10. Peace of Mind

Last, but certainly not least, having a dashcam can simply provide peace of mind. Knowing that you have an objective, digital witness ready to record any incident can make driving a less stressful experience.

Conclusion

Dashcams, with their myriad of benefits, are no longer just an accessory but an essential tool for UK drivers. With the wide range of options available, from basic models to those with advanced features, there’s a dashcam to suit every driver’s needs and budget.

Remember, while a dashcam is a powerful tool, it’s not a replacement for safe and responsible driving. Always prioritise safety on the roads. Safe driving! 🚗