With nearly 31% of British vehicles now equipped with dash cams, it’s clear these devices are becoming essential for many drivers. But how do dash cams work exactly?
This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of dash cams, covering everything from their functionality to legal considerations and purchasing advice.
Let’s get started!
A car dash cam is a compact camera device mounted on a vehicle’s dashboard or windshield. You can use it to record the road ahead.
Here are the 4 key components of a dashboard camera:
Dash cams come in various configurations, each designed to meet different needs:
Dash cams offer a multitude of advantages for drivers. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Different types of dashboard cameras work differently but the underlying working principles remain the same. It automatically starts recording when you turn on the ignition, capturing video in short segments of around three minutes each onto a micro SD card.
Now, let’s understand how a dash cam operates in different conditions:
During the day, the dashcams work in a regular way. They use wide-angle lenses and high-resolution sensors, allowing you to capture details such as road signs and other vehicles.
When driving at night, dash cams still function, but their performance can vary based on the technology used. If you want to capture clearer images in low-light conditions, features like Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and High Dynamic Range (HDR) can enhance night vision.
Most modern dash cams offer parking mode that allows you to record footage even when your car is stationary. Some dash cam models have intelligent parking mode, which activates recording only when it detects motion or a collision.
Dash cams won’t work when they are powered by a standard outlet in your vehicle. For the dash cam to work when your car is off, you’ll need a constant power source. This can be achieved by using an always-on accessory port or by hardwiring the camera to your car’s fuse box. But choose a dash cam with an auto-shutoff feature or install a low-voltage protection kit to avoid battery damage.
In the unfortunate event of an accident, dash cams are equipped with G-sensors that detect impact. When a collision occurs, the dash cam saves the footage leading up to the incident and locks the file to prevent it from being overwritten.
Yes, dashcams are legal to use in the UK. However, there are a few important things you need to be aware of.
The most crucial factor is where you position your dash cam. It mustn’t obstruct your view of the road. If it does, you could face a fine or even fail your MOT. The UK Highway Code specifies that nothing should intrude more than 40mm into the area swept by your windscreen wipers.
While you can legally record video on public roads in the UK, recording audio is a different matter. Capturing audio without the consent of everyone involved can be a breach of privacy. So, it’s a good idea to mute the audio function on your dash cam to avoid any legal complications.
It is legal for you to film other road users on public roads. But be mindful of where you’re pointing your dash cam. especially if you are recording in areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as private property.
If you’re involved in an accident and use your dash cam footage as evidence in court, it must be clear, unaltered, and relevant to the case. The footage must also be authenticated to prove its authenticity.
Choosing the right dash cam for your car involves several factors. Let’s break down what you should consider:
Installing a dash cam in your car is a straightforward process that anyone can do. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Yes, you should definitely consider getting a dash cam. They offer many benefits like providing crucial evidence in accidents, deterring bad driving, and savings on insurance. While there’s a small initial investment, the long-term advantages often outweigh the cost.
Yes, dash cams are designed to record continuously while your car is on. Most models start recording as soon as you turn the ignition or plug them into a power source. But keep in mind that if your dash cam’s power source is interrupted, or your memory card is full the recording will stop.
There are a few ways to watch your dashcam footage.
The amount of footage you can store on your dashboard camera primarily depends on the capacity of the micro SD card you use and the recording settings of your dash cam. Here’s what we know:
So, there you have it: how do dash cams work? While dash cams remain an effective way to enhance your driving experience, they can capture your own violations as well such as holding a mobile phone which can get you fined or banned from driving.
So, by understanding the working and legal implications, you can make an informed decision about whether a dash cam is right for you or not!
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