How do onboard cameras affect auto insurance?

A dashboard camera is one of those tiny digital cameras that you may have noticed the last time you hopped into a taxi. More ordinary drivers are thinking of getting them tool; after all, wouldn’t they prove your innocence if someone were to say you were at fault in a collision or accident?

They have also been used to hold police officers and other service people accountable while they’re on the job, and that’s why they're beneficial for everyone. Dashboard cameras work to protect all parties on the road, they can be used as evidence in a trial, and they’re becoming more mainstream.

How does it work?

The camera, when powered on, continuously records what's happening during a drive. Some can even record in the dark via infra-red sensors. Once the engine starts, the camera starts rolling and saves all video data onto an interchangeable memory card.

These cameras have proven effective in places where accident and insurance fraud appears to be a problem. Ever heard of the “crash for cash” insurance scam? Yes, people will crash into your car, roll onto your hood, or stage an accident just so they can file an insurance claim.

Therefore, having an onboard camera is a good idea if you’re looking for that added assurance or evidence in the event of an accident, or even a ticket.

The camera can act as an objective witness that can speak for you where your words may be contested. Any incident that requires a detailed investigation would benefit from the dashboard camera.

Insurance

As it stands, there is no evidence that insurers reward the use of dashboard cameras with lower premiums. The standardized use of onboard cameras is relegated to industries like law enforcement, transportation, and service. 

The technology is still relatively new and has yet to soak into the personal insurance category, but it is always good to check with your broker to see if any insurance companies are recognizing their value.

Additional evidence and information concerning an accident is always beneficial. When it comes to filing a claim, insurers ask for police reports during serious accidents so why not include the video evidence? If anything, you can bring it to court if you're not taken seriously at the scene.

If you only have basic auto insurance, the onboard camera could save you money if someone is trying to say the damage to your own vehicle is your fault.

Not being considered at fault in the aftermath of an accident will prevent your insurance premiums from skyrocketing while preserving your clean driving record.

Consider one for your vehicle

So, however late to the party the insurance providers are concerning dashboard cameras, they will end up saving you the hassle of the ‘he said she said’ during a dispute. The cameras can help you track your own driving, monitor any secondary drivers, plus, you might even catch an unexpected natural event!

It’s only a matter of time before dashboard cameras become standard, especially with the predicted rise of automated vehicles. Your reputation as a driver could be saved in the process too.

If you’re in the market to purchase one, read the reviews online and make sure the battery life is decent enough for your driving schedule.