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Cam

Having a cam in your vehicle comes with a number of advantages, depending on the model. See sections below:

🛈 Info:

Questions:

Safety Equipment Cam

Advantages

Advantages that come with having a cam in your vehicle:

  • Evidence in insurance claims, fraud or trial.

  • Lower insurance premium.

  • Deters theft.

  • Record vandalism.

  • Record of journeys.

  • Alert emergency services.

  • Lane and parking guidance.

  • GPS Maps.

Type

  • DashCam:

  •       Mounted on dashboard.

  •       Simpler installation.

  • MirrorCam:

  •       Mounted on mirror.

  •       Hidden from view of thieves.

  • Smart Phone:

  •       Install cam app.

  •       Not as convenient to use as a dedicated car cam.

  •       Not as feature rich.

Features

Features will vary from model to model. Below is a checklist of the features to look out for:

Power:

  • Auto start - On and off when car is started or switched off.

  • Hard wired to car, not cigarette lighter.

Storage:

  • Cloud.

  • >64GB.

Connectivity:

  • 3/4G.

  • Blue Tooth.

  • Wi-Fi.

  • IP Address technology.

Camera:

  • Recording angle > 70°.

  • 360°.

  • Rear camera activated when reversing.

  • HD: 4K.

  • Low/Night lighting.

Screen:

  • Touchscreen.

  • Size: 12 inch.

  • Resolution: 1140px

  • HD quality.

Display:

  • Front.

  • Rear.

  • Front and rear.

  • Adjust view.

  • Adjust brightness.

Metadata

  • Timestamp.

  • GPS Coordinates.

  • Speed.

  • Vehicle identification.

  • Lane lines.

Recording

  • Dual: Front and Rear.

  • 30 fps.

  • Bitrate: 18 000 kbps.

  • CPL Filter: Filters sunlight reflections.

  • Loop recording: Won't run out of space.

  • G-Sensor: Mark current footage.

  • Time lapse mode: Takes stills at preset intervals.

  • Lock video clip: Prevents accidental deletion.

  • Parking guard: Capture vandalism.

Features:

  • Speech recognition.

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)

  • FCW (Forward Collision Warning) – warn you of an impending collision by detecting stopped or slowly moved vehicles ahead of your vehicle.

  • PCW (Pedestrian Collision Warning) – warn you of an imminent collision with a pedestrian or cyclist ahead of your vehicle, allowing you time to react.

  • LDW (Lane Departure Warning) – help you avoid crashes due to drifting or departing your lane by detecting lane markers.

  • HMW (Headway Monitoring Warning) – warn you of an unsafe distance by constantly monitoring the distance to the vehicle ahead.

  • FMW (Forward Movement Warning) – constantly monitors the distance and speed of the vehicle ahead. If it is monitored to start, an alert is issued.

💡 Cams record audio in addition to video. Should you need to make note of a license plate number, read it out loud to record audio in case the number is not legible on video.

🛈 Dash Cam vs Mirror Cam

Dash cams and mirror cams are two different types of camera systems used in vehicles for recording footage. Here's a comparison between the two:

Dash Cam:

  • Placement: Dash cams are typically mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle, facing forward to capture the road ahead.

  • Field of view: Dash cams have a wide field of view, typically ranging from 120 to 180 degrees, allowing them to capture a broader perspective of the road and surroundings.

  • Recording focus: Dash cams are primarily designed to record footage of the road and traffic conditions. They are commonly used for documenting accidents, monitoring driving behavior, or capturing scenic routes.

  • Features: Dash cams often offer features like loop recording, G-sensors for impact detection, GPS logging, parking mode, and various recording settings. Some advanced dash cams may also have driver assistance features like lane departure warning or forward collision warning.

  • Discreet installation: Dash cams are generally discreet and do not interfere with the driver's rearview visibility.

  • Cost: Dash cams come in various price ranges, allowing for a wide selection based on budget and desired features.

Mirror Cam:

  • Placement: Mirror cams are integrated into the rearview mirror of the vehicle, replacing or attaching to the existing mirror assembly.

  • Field of view: Mirror cams typically have a narrower field of view compared to dash cams, usually around 120 degrees or less, focusing more on what is directly in front of the vehicle.

  • Dual functionality: Mirror cams serve a dual purpose by combining the functionality of a rearview mirror with a built-in camera. They provide both rearview mirror visibility and recording capabilities.

  • Recording focus: Mirror cams are primarily focused on capturing footage of what happens directly in front of the vehicle, such as accidents or incidents involving other drivers.

  • Features: Mirror cams often include features like loop recording, G-sensors, and some basic driver assistance features. However, the available features may vary depending on the specific model.

  • Integration: Mirror cams require installation and replacement of the original rearview mirror, which may involve more effort or professional installation.

  • Cost: Mirror cams generally tend to be more expensive compared to standard dash cams due to their integrated design and additional functionality.

Ultimately, the choice between a dash cam and a mirror cam depends on personal preference and specific needs. If your primary focus is on capturing footage of the road and surroundings, a dedicated dash cam may be a better option. However, if you prefer the convenience of an integrated camera system that replaces your rearview mirror, a mirror cam might be a suitable choice. Consider your priorities, budget, and desired features when making a decision.

Is a car camera legal?

The legality of car cameras, also known as dash cams, varies depending on the jurisdiction and local regulations. In many countries and regions, using a car camera is generally legal, but there might be specific rules and restrictions that you need to be aware of. It's important to check the laws and regulations of your specific location to ensure compliance. Here are a few key points to consider:

  • Privacy laws: Some jurisdictions have privacy laws that restrict the recording of audio or video in certain situations or without consent. It's important to understand the privacy laws in your area and ensure that your car camera use complies with these laws.

  • Placement and obstruction: In many places, it is legal to have a car camera, but there may be restrictions on where you can mount it to avoid obstructing the driver's view. It's essential to position the camera appropriately and ensure it does not interfere with your visibility.

  • Recording while driving: Laws regarding recording while driving can vary. In some places, recording video while driving is allowed, while in others, it may be prohibited or have specific limitations. It's important to be aware of the specific regulations in your jurisdiction.

  • Consent and disclosure: If you plan to use a car camera that captures audio, there may be additional legal considerations regarding obtaining consent from passengers or notifying them of audio recording. Laws regarding audio recording can be stricter than those for video recording.

  • Use of footage: The use of dash cam footage may be subject to certain restrictions. It's important to understand the legal implications and requirements if you plan to share or use the footage for insurance claims, legal purposes, or public sharing.

To ensure compliance with local laws, it's recommended to research and familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your area. Consult with local law enforcement, legal professionals, or relevant government agencies to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on the legality of car cameras in your jurisdiction.

Can dash cam footage be used against you?

Yes, dash cam footage can potentially be used against you in certain situations. Here are a few scenarios where dash cam footage can be used against you:

  • Traffic violations: If the dash cam footage captures you committing a traffic violation, such as running a red light, speeding, or driving recklessly, it can be used as evidence to enforce traffic laws or issue citations.

  • Accidents and insurance claims: Dash cam footage can be used as evidence in insurance claims or legal disputes following an accident. If the footage shows that you were at fault or engaged in negligent driving behavior, it can be used against you in determining liability and potential compensation.

  • Criminal investigations: If the dash cam captures evidence of a crime, such as a hit-and-run incident or dangerous driving that causes harm to others, the footage can be used by law enforcement in their investigations and potentially as evidence in court.

  • Personal disputes: In some cases, dash cam footage can be used as evidence in personal disputes, such as road rage incidents or disputes with pedestrians. The footage can help establish the sequence of events and provide objective evidence of what transpired.

It's important to note that the admissibility and weight given to dash cam footage as evidence can depend on various factors, including the jurisdiction, the reliability and authenticity of the footage, and any applicable privacy laws.

It's always advisable to consult with legal professionals who are familiar with the laws in your specific jurisdiction to understand the potential implications of using dash cam footage. Additionally, it's crucial to use dash cams responsibly and in compliance with local laws and regulations.

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