Dashcams have become a common sight in cars across South Carolina. These small cameras, mounted on a car’s dashboard, record what happens on the road. Once mainly used by police and truck drivers, they’re now popular among everyday drivers too.
In this guide, we’ll go over the benefits and drawbacks of using dashcams in South Carolina. We’ll also explain the legal rules you need to follow so you don’t get into trouble.
Benefits of Using a Dashcam
Dashcams Can Help After an Accident
One of the biggest reasons people use dashcams is to record accidents. A dashcam gives a clear video of what really happened. This can help:
Prove who caused the accident
Show who had the right of way
Catch hit-and-run drivers
If you’re in a crash, having dashcam footage can make it easier to deal with police, insurance companies, and even lawyers.
Improve Your Driving
Dashcams aren’t just for accidents—they can also help you become a better driver. You can watch your own driving videos to spot mistakes or bad habits. This is especially useful for:
New drivers
Teenagers learning to drive
Parents who want to keep an eye on their kids’ driving
Some dashcams record both inside and outside the car, so you can see everything happening around the vehicle.
Extra Features for More Safety
Many newer dashcams come with helpful features like:
Front and rear cameras: Useful if someone hits your car from behind
GPS tracking: Helps emergency teams find your location
24/7 recording: Some dashcams keep recording even when the car is parked
These features add another layer of safety and peace of mind while you’re on the road.
Things to Be Careful About
Dashcams Don’t Lower Insurance Costs
Even though dashcams can show you weren’t at fault in a crash, they usually don’t lead to lower car insurance premiums. But the footage might still save you money by proving the other driver was responsible.
Your Own Footage Could Be Used Against You
A dashcam shows everything, not just the parts that help you. If you caused an accident, the same video might prove you were at fault. That video can be used in court, so always drive responsibly.
Risk of Theft
Some thieves target cars with visible dashcams. A camera in plain sight might tempt someone to break into your vehicle. To avoid this:
Use a small, less noticeable dashcam
Choose a model that you can easily remove and hide when parked
Dashcam Laws in South Carolina
In South Carolina, there are specific rules about where you can place a dashcam:
It must be mounted on the dashboard
Mounting it on the windshield or windows is not allowed
Following these rules is important. If your dashcam is installed the wrong way, you could get fined or have legal issues after an accident.
Dashcams are a great way to stay safe and prepared on the road. They can help protect your rights during a car accident, offer useful driving tips, and add a layer of security to your car. But they also come with a few risks, so it’s important to understand both the good and the bad.
And remember—if you’re ever in a car accident, it’s always a good idea to speak with a legal expert. The team at Ted Law Firm can help guide you through your case and make sure your rights are protected. Contact them today if you need support after a car crash in South Carolina.
