A dash cam can save you a lot of money in the long run by removing the “he said, she said” from after-collision disputes. It can also prove your innocence during a traffic stop or help find your car if it gets stolen. Even a relatively inexpensive one is worth the investment if it protects you against costly repairs, insurance premium increases and legal fees. And it’s much cheaper than a hefty fine from an inattentive or aggressive driver.
These handy devices can be mounted on your windshield to record the road in front of you and your passengers, as well as your car’s surroundings when parked in a safe spot. They come in a range of price points from $50 for bare-bones models to several hundred dollars for a more comprehensive bundle that includes a rear camera and GPS functionality.
Look for a dash cam with a high resolution and wide-angle lens to provide clear video footage in bright or low light conditions. Some include night vision capabilities that capture infrared imagery or WDR (wide dynamic range) to improve illumination, which can be helpful for driving at night or in dimly lit areas. It’s also important to consider storage options, as many dash cams have built-in memory and some also support external hard drive storage solutions.
Another important consideration is whether the dash cam supports wireless connectivity, allowing you to remotely access and review footage via a smartphone app. Some models allow you to use voice controls for hands-free operation, while others can automatically start recording when the vehicle detects movement or have a parking mode that turns on motion detection and records footage when the car is parked.
Lastly, some dash cams offer a built-in battery or super-capacitor power to continue recording for a short period after regular 12-volt power is lost (such as during a collision). It’s best to find out how long the unit can operate on its own or with a dedicated parking power supply before purchasing.
While a dash cam is not mandatory equipment for any driver, it’s an excellent tool to have on hand when the unexpected happens. Whether it’s a reckless driver who hit your parked car or a cop who pulls you over, a quality dash cam can help you prove your innocence and potentially save you hundreds of dollars in repair bills, insurance premiums or legal fees.
The U3000 from Kenwood is a great choice for drivers on a budget, offering 4K video and a bright f/1.8 wide-angle lens to cut through windshield reflections. It also features GPS to serve speed camera alerts and provides detailed accident reports with G force, speed, and location data for quick filing with insurance companies. A magnetic mount makes it easier to remove from the dash when not in use. A 16GB memory card is included, but you can upgrade to a larger capacity if needed.
A gyroscope, accelerometer and a laser sensor in the Garmin Mini 2’s camera allow it to identify objects in your field of view, making it an especially useful device for new drivers. You can also use the app to set up automatic updates for your dash cam, so it’s always ready to go.