Taxis, police cars, fleet vehicles, and buses all utilize dash cams. More and more people are installing these devices in their personal vehicles as well. Dash cams provide a range of benefits that help protect you and your vehicle.
We’re going to go over some of the major benefits of installing an aftermarket dash cam and help you decide on the best option for your uses and vehicle!
What is a Dash Cam?
You probably already know what a dash cam is, but we will do a quick overview for the uninitiated. Dash cam is short for dashboard camera, and they are essentially just that: cameras that are mounted on your dashboard. The purpose of a dash cam is to capture what is going on in and around your vehicle.
Types of Dash Cams
There are a few different types of dash cams available, all with a range of features.
- Single Lens Dash Cam
- Dual Lens (Dual Input) Dash Cam
- Interior Dash Cams
- Motorcycle Dash Cams
- GPS Dash Cams
Additionally, dash cams can have a range of features such as:
- 360-degree view
- 4K recording
- Wireless and app connectivity
- Rear view mirror mounting
- Park mode
Next, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of having a dash cam in your car.
Record Accidents
Car accidents are not uncommon. Seventy-seven percent of drivers have been in an accident, and most people will be in three to four accidents over the course of their time driving.
Determining fault can be a difficult task, and the outcome can have significant impacts, financially and legally. A dash cam can help clarify the facts surrounding an accident, better detailing who is at fault. While emotions run high after an accident, a dash cam will always provide a clear answer to what happened. The information captured can help insurance companies, law enforcement, lawyers, and more.
Here in Utah, a dash cam is particularly useful when driving in the winter. The unpredictable weather and steep mountain roads near Salt Lake can be treacherous.
Promote Safer Driving
It’s important to remember that the video recorded by a dash cam can also be used against you. Knowing you are being recorded tends to reduce speeding and risky driving.
This benefit is especially useful for parents of teen drivers. In addition to promoting safer driving, you can use footage from the dash cam as an opportunity to keep an eye on and provide feedback on your teen’s driving habits.
Dash Cams Provide Protection When Parked
It can be stressful leaving your vehicle parked in a high-traffic area. Many modern dash cams are equipped with a “park mode,” which leaves the camera on in a reduced power state until it detects movement or impact.
Investing in a dash cam with a park mode is a great way to protect your vehicle from accidents and hit-and-runs when parked on busy streets.
Help Prevent Vandalism and Theft
Just the presence of a dash cam can be enough to deter a potential thief. In the event a break-in does happen, your dash cam can provide evidence to law enforcement to catch the person responsible.
Record Unexpected Events and Scenic Drives
Having a dash cam isn’t just about accident recording, driving safety, and theft protection. Dash cams have some more fun uses, too!
Think about how many dash cam videos you’ve seen on social media or the news. Unexpected things, from wildlife encounters to meteors, happen all the time. Having a dash cam lets you capture and save them.
Additionally, saving footage from road trips and scenic drives is a great way to preserve memories.
Dash Cams for Commercial Use
For ride share drivers, in addition to the above benefits, a dash cam will provide coverage of your interactions with your passengers from when you pick them up to their drop-off destination.
Make sure to check with local laws and guidelines from your ride share company before installing a dash cam.
Aftermarket Dash Cam Installation at Innovative Audio in Salt Lake City
Installing an aftermarket dash cam has some serious benefits. No matter when you drive, the team at Innovative Audio has the skill and experience to install your new dash cam. Our expert team will help you find the perfect unit to fit your needs and install it with professional fit and finish. Give us a call or stop in at our shop at 8600 S. 700 E. in Sandy today!