When it comes to automotive accessories, technology has advanced at a breakneck pace. The dashcam is one such vital accessory. Dash cameras have been there for a long time. However, they have only recently sprung into the public consciousness, owing to their tremendous benefits.

A dashboard camera, often known as a dash camera, is a camera that is put on the dashboard of a vehicle. A dash cam's primary function is to act as a "silent witness" in the case of an accident. The dash cameras are meant to meticulously and correctly record every detail that occurs on the road.

What is a Dash Cam?

A dash camera is a compact digital video camera and recorder which drivers can install in their vehicle. It continuously captures and records the road view from the front, side, or rear window of the vehicle.

There are a number of dash camera models available on the market. Some dash cams can record audio while others can capture the interior of the car.

What is Dash Camera Used for?

A dash camera for a car is small and can be easily mounted on the dashboard or the windscreen (behind the rearview mirror). Dash camera records everything in front of the car.

With the use of a rear-facing lens, some high-end dash cameras can capture the rearview. Installing a dashcam in the car is a quick and easy way to record your drive.

Evolution of Dash Cams

Dashcams have come a long way. There has been a substantial improvement from the bulky early devices with low-quality sensors to the smart, networked, slimline versions of today. 

This is reflected not only in the hardware that powers the devices, but also in big data, telematics, cloud, artificial intelligence, and deep learning technologies that fleet managers are using. This enables them to acquire a better understanding of how to enhance the safety and efficacy of their fleets.

The more powerful dash cams contain artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. These cams use computer vision to evaluate videos and give insights into distracted driving and risky driving habits. Most companies use video footage to create a safety program that rewards positive behavior like avoiding collisions. 

Dash Cams for Fleet Management

Massive fleets of vehicles (large semi-trucks to smaller vans), look for methods to make their fleets safer. Fleet managers can use dash cams to track drivers and identify individuals who may require more training or discipline. Management can enhance their drivers' safety by reviewing footage from vehicle cameras on a regular basis.

A dashcam records either driver-facing or forward-facing, or 360-degree footage of a car in real-time. When connected to fleet management software, the videos are kept in the cloud. The users can see them when driver safety incidents such as speeding, strong braking, harsh cornering, and aggressive acceleration occur.

How Does a Dash Cam Work?

A dashcam records a video of what is going on in front of the vehicle. It could be an additional safety feature for the vehicle. If you are driving and an accident occurs, the camera will record the entire incident and will provide important facts about how the accident occurred.

A microphone for audio recording could be added to dash cams. If you'd rather have just the visual settings, the microphone may always be turned off.

Do I Need a Dash Cam?

The dash camera meticulously records every detail that occurs on the road and inside the vehicle. The dash cam’s economical, feature-rich cameras can be combined with different onboard technology. For example, GPS devices and recorders.

Here's a closer look at some of the most compelling reasons to consider purchasing and installing a dash camera in your car;

First-Hand Evidence of an Accident

In the event of an automobile accident, the dashcam is the most powerful and effective proof you have. This is the most important reason why vehicle owners invest their money and time in dash cams. The dashcam will begin recording as soon as the car's engine is started. It will give real-time, effective, and direct proof in the event of an accident.

If a car accident occurs involving your vehicle, you can establish that it was not your fault using the footage as evidence. In this manner, the other motorist will be held liable for the accident and will be required to pay for your car repairs. 

Without video evidence, the other driver can claim that the fault was all yours, as it is common for criminals to blame the victims.

Solution for Undisciplined Drivers

A dash camera will assist you in reporting negligent drivers. Every driver has experienced at least one unfortunate interaction with a reckless driver.

These careless and irresponsible drivers are unpleasant and bothersome. In addition, they may also endanger the lives of other drivers and passengers. Reporting an unruly driver's bad behavior can be a difficult task. This is because it typically necessitates proof. If you don't have an eye witness to testify on your behalf, the case will normally go cold.

The dashcam comes into play here, providing the ultimate proof against reckless drivers. When in traffic, the dashcam can be utilized to report drivers who do not act appropriately. You can use it to report drunk or dangerous drivers who text while driving, and road rage collisions, and other incidents.

Perfect for Checking Certain Concerns

Purchasing a dashcam is also a good idea if you frequently lend your car to friends or family. It's natural to be worried about the car's security because it's one of your most important assets.

Most new dash cameras have GPS devices built-in. Therefore, in addition to recording everything that happens inside and outside the car, the dashcam also records the driving speed and different street routes.

If you're concerned about your children's driving habits, a dash camera might help you keep an eye on them. Additionally, an advanced dashcam can live stream the feed to your Smartphone, allowing you to assess their driving style.

Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud is one of the most widespread challenges of the twenty-first century. Not only does insurance fraud harm insurance companies on a huge scale, but it also affects car drivers.

Some drivers create vehicle accidents on purpose to accuse the other party and get money from the victim. This is a common type of fraud nowadays, with perpetrators looking for high-end car drivers to extort money from.

These individuals extort money from the purported victim. In addition, they fabricate injuries to receive insurance money from their insurance companies.

At least one of these two unpleasant situations can be avoided with the use of a dashboard camera. You can prevent scammers from extorting money through a dash camera that will capture all activities.

Prevent Parking Accidents and Vandalism

A properly mounted dash camera can effectively capture vandals attempting to break into your vehicle. This is especially if you frequently leave your vehicle unattended in public places or dimly lit regions. Also, dash cams can be programmed to stay on all night without requiring to run the engine.

Parking can be a nuisance, particularly for new drivers. These drivers are prone to scratching other cars while attempting to park their own. Hence, if someone knocks on your car while you're parking, the camera's motion detection starts recording and sends you a message.

A dashcam may even be used to monitor a mechanic. Hence, you can ensure that the mechanic completes the essential repairs and also test-drives the vehicle.

The Bottom Line

A dashboard camera is an excellent investment. This is true, given its low cost and simple design, comprising a microphone and fixed-lens digital camera. Thanks to its suction cup, these basic cameras can be put on the dashboard/windshield of your vehicle in seconds.

You can choose from a variety of dash cams, ranging in price to high-end, state-of-the-art cameras that have a color display, data and time stamps, and two lenses.