In recent years, dashcams have become an essential tool for many drivers, offering peace of mind and an invaluable safeguard on the road. As prices have significantly dropped—some models now available for under £20—these compact devices are no longer the luxury items they once were. According to GEM Motoring Assist, the dashcam is not only an investment in road safety but also a powerful means of holding offenders to account in the event of a collision or incident.
The Role of Dashcams in Road Safety
James Luckhurst, Head of Road Safety at GEM Motoring Assist, strongly advocates for the installation of dashcams. “If you’re a safe, conscientious driver, a dashcam helps protect your no-claims bonus, as well as allowing you to play your part in reporting offences, road rage incidents, and ‘crash-for-cash’ scams,” he explains.
Dashcams serve multiple purposes: they provide crucial evidence in the event of a collision, help to determine fault, and protect against fraudulent claims. Whether capturing unexpected events on the road or acting as a deterrent against vandalism and theft when parked, dashcams offer a host of benefits. Additionally, some insurers now offer discounts to drivers using them, recognising their role in promoting safer driving and reducing the likelihood of fraudulent claims.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the most significant changes in the dashcam market has been the dramatic price drop in recent years. Once considered expensive gadgets, many models are now available for under £20, making them accessible to a broader range of motorists. The devices are easy to install, with no significant impact on driver visibility when positioned correctly. They can be purchased both online and from high street retailers, providing a range of options for all budgets.
Key Features to Look For
When considering which dashcam to purchase, it’s essential to focus on certain features to ensure optimal performance:
- Video Quality: High-definition resolution, ideally at least 1080p, is essential to ensure clarity. Night-time performance is another crucial factor for capturing incidents in low-light conditions.
- Wide-Angle Lens: A lens that offers a wider view allows for more of the road to be captured, providing a better record of the surrounding environment.
- GPS Functionality: Some dashcams come with GPS, which tracks your speed and location, adding another layer of useful data.
- Loop Recording: This feature ensures continuous recording, with the device overwriting old footage when storage is full.
- Parking Mode: This provides surveillance when the car is stationary, offering peace of mind when parked in public places.
The Legal Landscape of Dashcam Use
Using a dashcam on UK roads is perfectly legal, and no special permissions are needed. However, the footage must be for personal use, and sharing it publicly could raise privacy concerns. GEM also reminds drivers that dashcam footage can be used in legal proceedings. If it shows you to be at fault in an incident, it could lead to prosecution. Therefore, while dashcams are a valuable tool for protecting yourself and others, they also come with responsibility.
How Dashcams Impact Insurance Premiums
As the use of dashcams has become more widespread, many UK insurance companies have started to offer discounts to policyholders who use them. These discounts, ranging from 5% to 20%, reflect the belief that dashcam users tend to be more responsible drivers and are less likely to make fraudulent claims.
Incorporating a dashcam into your vehicle is not just about safeguarding your own interests; it’s also about contributing to a safer driving culture. The recorded footage can be shared with the police or even used in court to settle disputes or help authorities investigate incidents, from accidents to road rage.
The Legalities of Dashcam Evidence
Dashcam footage is admissible in UK courts, but its use comes with conditions. The footage must be of good quality and must be clear enough to be considered reliable evidence. Additionally, if you submit footage as evidence, you may be required to attend court as a witness. However, it’s worth noting that less than 2% of submissions reach the trial stage.
A Tool for Safer Roads
The value of a dashcam is clear: it’s a small investment that can provide significant protection, offering peace of mind on the road and serving as an essential tool for road safety. But James Luckhurst of GEM Motoring Assist cautions that while a dashcam can protect drivers, the fundamental principles of care, courtesy, and concentration remain the most effective ways to reduce the risk of accidents and fatalities on the roads.
“Once installed, it’s good to know it can protect you in incidents where it might otherwise be your word against someone else’s,” says Luckhurst. “But however helpful a dash cam may occasionally be, we still encourage everyone to drive with the original GEM values of care, courtesy, and concentration. These cost nothing, and if every driver committed to upholding them, then we would see a significant and sustained reduction in the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads.”
For those interested in learning more about dashcams, GEM Motoring Assist will feature a comprehensive guide on buying, fitting, and using a dashcam in the Spring 2025 edition of its member magazine, Good Motoring.
