Dashcams—small cameras installed in cars to record evidence—are becoming increasingly popular. These video cameras, which are mounted on the car’s windshield, can be used to capture scenic routes.
However, the primary purpose of a dashcam is to collect evidence. They record how an accident unfolded, who was at fault, and the license plate number of a driver who fled the scene after an incident. The footage does, however, form part of the overall body of evidence. The footage itself generally does not constitute sufficient evidence and is therefore used as supporting evidence.
The Benefits of a Dashcam
The dashcam offers drivers several benefits. We’ve listed the most important ones for you below.
Evidence in the Event of Accidents
A dashcam continuously records what happens while driving. In the event of an accident, the video footage can clarify exactly what happened and who is at fault. This can be helpful for insurance claims and legal matters.
Protection Against Insurance Fraud
Dashcams can help prevent insurance fraud, such as staged accidents in which someone intentionally causes an accident to collect an insurance payout. The footage can prove that the claim is unfounded.
Monitoring of Parked Vehicles
Some dashcams have a parking mode, which causes them to automatically start recording when motion is detected or when the car is hit. This can help identify car thieves or others responsible for damage while the car is parked.
Improving Handling
The knowledge that the drive is being recorded may encourage drivers to drive more carefully and obey traffic laws. This can lead to safer driving behavior and fewer accidents.
Recording Unexpected Events
Dashcams can also capture interesting or unexpected events, such as natural disasters, unusual weather conditions, or even funny situations on the road. This footage can be viewed or shared later.
Comfort on long drives
Dashcams can be used to record scenic routes or long trips, so you can look back on them later or share them with friends and family.
Going on vacation? Where is the dashcam allowed—and where isn’t it?
The use of dashcams is not permitted without restrictions in all countries, and the laws vary significantly from country to country.
In the Netherlands, for example, the use of dashcams is permitted, and there are no specific restrictions. However, it is important to respect the privacy of others and to ensure that the camera does not obstruct the driver’s view.
Dashcams are also permitted in Belgium, but the footage cannot be made public without good reason due to privacy laws. However, it can be used as evidence in the event of an accident.
The use of dashcams is permitted in Germany, but strict privacy rules apply. The recordings must comply with GDPR regulations (General Data Protection Regulation), and the footage may only be stored for a short period of time and must be overwritten if nothing significant has been recorded.
Dashcams are permitted in France, but the driver must inform others that they are being recorded. The footage may only be used for personal purposes and may not be shared publicly without permission.
And for those going on vacation to England, dashcams are allowed and popular there. They may be used freely as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view. Footage can be used as evidence in the event of accidents and insurance claims.
Dashcams are prohibited in countries such as Luxembourg, Austria, Switzerland, Portugal, and Spain.
In many countries, you’re also in big trouble if you operate the device while driving. In these countries, the same rules apply as for using smartphones while driving.
As a driver, make sure you are familiar with the specific laws and privacy regulations of the country in which you are driving. Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines and legal problems.
Where should I mount a dashcam?
Properly mounting a dashcam is crucial for both the effectiveness of the recordings and the driver’s safety. Below are some guidelines for mounting a dashcam.
The windshield, behind the rearview mirror, is the most common and recommended location. Placing the dashcam here gives it a clear view of the road without obstructing the driver’s view. Make sure the dashcam is mounted high enough so that it doesn’t get in the way.
Another good spot is the center of the windshield, just below the rearview mirror. This provides a symmetrical and unobstructed view of the road ahead.
Some drivers choose to mount the dashcam on the dashboard. This can be a good option if the windshield is too steep or if the camera has a wide field of view. Make sure the dashcam is securely fastened and cannot shift while driving.
If you have a dashcam with a second camera for the rear view, mount it on the rear window, in the center and as high as possible. This ensures a clear view of what’s happening behind you.
Be sure to follow legal requirements. In some countries, there are specific rules regarding where you can mount a dashcam. In general, the dashcam must not obstruct the driver’s view. Make sure you comply with local laws and guidelines.
Can a dashcam help prevent your car from being stolen?
A dashcam alone is not 100% effective at preventing car theft, especially when compared to the active security features of a car alarm.
As you’ve read earlier in this article, a dashcam records footage of what’s happening in front of—and sometimes behind—the car. This can be useful as evidence after a theft, but it doesn’t prevent the theft itself.
A visible dashcam can act as a deterrent in some cases, but many professional car thieves will not be deterred by a camera. They can easily remove or ignore the camera, knowing that the footage is usually not monitored in real time.
The Effectiveness and Benefits of a Car Alarm
A car alarm offers several benefits that help keep your car safe and secure. We’ve outlined the benefits of a car alarm for you below.
Preventive Security
Deterrence
The sound of a car alarm deters potential thieves and vandals. Knowing that a car is protected by an alarm discourages car thieves from breaking into or stealing the car.
Immediate Alert
A loud alarm draws the attention of bystanders and alerts the car’s owner. This helps quickly stop a theft or attempted break-in.
Immobiler Feature
Many modern car alarms are equipped with an immobilizer that locks the engine, preventing the car from starting without the correct key or remote control. This makes it significantly more difficult to steal the car.
Reactive Security
Notice to You as the Owner
Some car alarms can send notifications to the owner via a mobile app or text message, so you’re immediately alerted to a possible break-in or attempted theft, even if you’re not nearby.
Location and Tracking
Advanced alarm systems can provide GPS tracking, allowing you to track the location of your stolen vehicle and share this information with the police.
Peace of Mind
Insurance Discounts
Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for vehicles equipped with approved car alarms, as they reduce the risk of theft.
Increased Vehicle Value
A car with good security features may be more appealing to potential buyers if you decide to sell your vehicle. It can increase your car’s resale value.
Additional Features
Window and Door Sensors
Car alarms can be equipped with sensors that detect when windows are smashed or doors are opened without the correct key, further reducing the likelihood of a successful break-in.
Shock and Motion Sensors
These sensors can detect abnormal movements or vibrations, such as attempts to lift or break into the vehicle, and trigger the alarm.
Integration with Other Security Systems
Compatibility with Dashcams
Some advanced alarm systems can be integrated with dashcams, allowing security footage to be recorded as soon as the alarm goes off. This can provide valuable evidence in the event of an attempted break-in or theft.
Remote Control and Automatic Locking
Car alarms can often be operated with a remote control, making it easy to lock and unlock the car from a distance. This offers added convenience and enhances the overall security of your car.
Conclusion
A car alarm offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond simply deterring thieves. It provides both preventive and reactive security, increases peace of mind, and can even yield financial benefits through insurance discounts. By installing a car alarm, you significantly increase the likelihood that your car, RV, or boat will remain secure and that attempted thefts will be thwarted.
How do our installation specialists go about their work?
Our installation specialists, who undergo annual training by KIWA, have extensive experience in the automotive industry and are true car enthusiasts. After the SCM car alarm is installed at the location of your choice, our installation specialist will provide you with verbal instructions, which you will also receive in writing from us. This way, you can review the instructions again at your leisure.
If you have any questions after your SCM car alarm has been installed, you can contact not only our installation specialist but also our service desk in Lelystad. Our office in Lelystad is staffed by an enthusiastic and dedicated team who are here to answer all your questions about the installation of your SCM car alarm.
