What is a dashcam and how does it work?

A dashcam is a compact digital recording camera that attaches to your car windshield and is powered through the power port in your vehicle. The dashcam automatically powers up when you turn on your ignition and it starts recording. The recorded videos are stored in an internal micro flash card of your dashcam. If the dashcam runs out of storage space, it will record over previous videos. This feature will prevent the dashcam from ever running out of storage space.

For some reason, if you need to preserve a video clip, you will need to transfer the video onto your computer. Most dashcams also record sound. The fancier dashcam models offer superior night time recording, and motion detection recording. Some dashcams have GPS and can stamp time and speed of vehicle on the screen.

Here are some pros and cons to using a dashcam in your vehicle. It may not be for everyone but it might be right for you.

The Pros to having a dashcam

  1. A dashcam recording can dispute who is at fault in an accident.
  2. A dashcam video will be helpful when filing a police report and working with a claims insurance adjuster. A recorded video is like having a witness to an accident.
  3. A dashcam can be your saving grace when there are no witnesses around. Often times, when it was clearly the other driver’s fault, but there are no witnesses to the accident, that driver can easily deny it was their fault.
  4. A dashcam can make you more mindful in your driving habits.
  5. If you have teenagers and they drive your car, their driving is being recorded.
  6. With more dashcam options available in the market, they are relatively inexpensive.

The Cons to having a dashcam

  1. Depending on your budget, dashcams can be expensive.
  2. Dashcams are visible to thieves.
  3. A dashcam requires some basic installation skill, especially if you want to hide the power cord behind your dash.
  4. Dashcams are not biased, especially when it is your fault!