We’re well into 2022, and dashcams have firmly positioned themselves as a pivotal part of every vehicle. However, not all devices are the same. They come with different features, and obviously, with different price points. When investing in a dashcam in 2022, it’s important to keep in mind the most important elements which could tilt the scales in your favor in court, or with your insurance company.
Table of Contents
New hardware
A dash cam’s main goal is to provide irrefutable evidence in court. As such, it is of absolute importance that the quality of the video recording is impeccable. However, just having a “high-res” camera won’t suffice here, as there are numerous factors that need to be taken into consideration: a dual-lens camera (accidents don’t happen just in the front of the car), quality night vision (accidents also don’t just happen during the day), 4K resolution (you can never have enough of those pixels!), GPS and speed logging, and a supercapacitor. Having support for the H.256 video format is also becoming increasingly important, as this format cuts down on video size and allows the camera to record for longer.
Voice and app support
Distractions are every driver’s worst enemy, and if your dashcam is distracting you from driving, then it’s not serving its purpose well. Quality dash cams come with both voice, and app support, helping drivers minimize time spent with the device while maximizing its potential. Some original equipment manufacturers have started integrating Amazon’s Alexa into their devices, allowing drivers to “speak” to their gear. App support, on the other hand, allows for quick and seamless rewinding and rewatching of recorded footage, without the annoyance of an ultra-tiny screen.
Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS)
We may be used to parking sensors, collision warnings, or lane departure warnings, but these features are still considered “advanced”, and as such, aren’t standard equipment for many vehicles. In that case, it would be wise to invest in a dashcam that comes with these super convenient additions.
Buffered Parking Mode
For many drivers, parking mode is the single most important dashcam feature, as it cuts down on power consumption and storage usage, while still keeping an eye on the car, while it rests. However, context is everything – especially on the court, and if the camera fails to properly record the events leading up to, let’s say, a hit and run, the footage may not be that usable. Buffered Parking Mode always keeps the last few seconds of footage in the dashcam’s memory, helping you plead your case with ease.
Speed logging and impact detection
Ideally, every camera should be able to track the speed at which the vehicle is traveling, and a G-sensor to sense when the vehicle is hit. With these features, the dashcam is able to create and tag events properly, simplifying search and ensuring important information never gets lost or overwritten. Throw in a GPS for good measure, and you’ve got yourself a dashcam that can do it all.
Read More: What Cars Have The Most Expensive Catalytic Converters For Scrap?
