Thinking of installing a dashcam in your car? Here’s what they do, how they can support your independence, and some things to think about before you fit one. We’ll help you choose the right camera and feel safe behind the wheel.
A dashcam is a small and simple camera, fitted to your windscreen, that looks like a tiny sat nav. They continuously record footage of the road, while you’re driving.
They’re popular because they give you extra peace of mind and security if something happens. Dashcams can also make it easier to prove what happened if you need to make an insurance claim.
Whether you drive your own Motability Scheme vehicle or not, getting a dashcam could be a good idea.
- How dashcams work
- Who recommends dashcams?
- How dashcams work on the Scheme
- Tips for your first dashcam
- More than just for safety
How dashcams work
A basic dashcam has transferable or built-in storage. It continuously records everything it’s pointed at, through your windows.
People usually install them on their front windscreen, just next to their rear-view mirror. You can put them at the back of your vehicle too, to capture the road behind you. Or even inside your vehicle, which is called a ‘cabin-view’ camera.
Dashcams record on a loop, so you never end up with lots of footage. When storage is full, the dashcam records over old footage, so save anything you need straight after an incident.
You can usually save footage by connecting your dashcam to your computer with a USB lead. Or you can sometimes pair your dashcam with an app and save it straight to your phone.
Some dashcams even upload footage automatically, straight to the cloud, if they have built in Wi-Fi or 4G.
If you want your dashcam to record sound as well, you’ll usually need to turn this on in the settings. Just remember it will record all sound, including your conversations.
Road safety charity RoadPeace recommends using a dashcam. They highlight a quote from Road Safety Support’s Technical Expert Steve Callaghan, who says it’s a ‘powerful tool, which creates a strong deterrence against motoring crimes.’
They also point to the fact that leading dashcam manufacturer Nextbase said over 70% of the 57,000 videos uploaded to their portal were used as evidence to punish offenders.
A dashcam can be extremely useful as evidence, if there’s a dispute with another road user or a possible driving offence.
It’s not all about protecting yourself though. You can also use a dashcam to record your journey, perhaps through a beautiful part of the country or on your favourite road.
If you’re on the Motability Scheme and you’re considering fitting a dashcam to your Scheme vehicle, you can, if you meet a few conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
- It must be a plug-in and not hard-wired into your vehicle
- It needs to be attached in a way that does not cause damage to your vehicle. For example, not permanently attached to the dashboard
- Any costs must be covered by you, including buying the dashcam and fitting or removal costs
You can fit your dashcam yourself, or your dealer can do it for you. Before you install your new device, talk to your dealer, or speak to us if you’re not sure.
If you choose a cabin camera, think about the privacy of you and your passengers. As it will record everything inside your vehicle.
And remember, the footage your camera records is only for your personal use. Never use your camera to monitor others.
Tips for your first dashcam
Ready to buy your first dashcam? Here’s how to get started:
- Decide what you need it for, first, then look for a dashcam based on that
- Use this guide from Which? to help you decide which model to get
- Go for high resolution. This way you’ll still get good footage when there’s not much light
- Get lots of storage. A dashcam with more capacity will hold footage for longer
- Shop around at places like Amazon and Halfords to make sure you get a good deal
There are lots of apps available that turn your smartphone into a dashcam, when it’s mounted in a suitable holder. But these vary and are not as high-resolution as a proper dashcam.
With so many choices, deciding which dashcam to fit can be confusing. If you’re stuck, ask the retailer you’re shopping with for advice.
Dashcams offer you more than safety. They give you more confidence and independence behind the wheel.
If you’re in an accident, for example, your camera could act as proof of who’s at fault. Knowing that can lower any anxiety you might have about driving.
Footage from a dashcam can be used as evidence in legal cases too. For example, if you witness a crime, the police might ask for a copy of your recording.
We’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that support your lifestyle. We give you all the information you need, so you can choose how to stay safe on the road.
Check if you’re eligible to join the Scheme
If you receive a qualifying mobility allowance you can use it to lease a vehicle, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair on the Motability Scheme.
We cover your insurance, servicing, maintenance and breakdown. And we’ll support you with charging, if you get an electric vehicle.
Check if you’re eligible.
