Let’s face it, when it comes to accidents people aren’t always honest. And whether it’s just because memory is fallible or because someone is being deliberately deceitful, you are better off being able to provide documented evidence to protect yourself against false claims.
That’s why so many RV drivers are turning to dashboard cameras to provide the security of documenting on-road incidents. RVs are seen as luxury vehicles and predators may read them as marks for insurance scams. Take the case of Shawn M., who told the story of his friend on an RV chat site. The friend was driving on a four-lane highway when a cadillac veered across all four lanes in front of the friend’s RV and slammed on brakes. When the inevitable accident occured, the Cadillac driver claimed the friend had rear-ended him. Thanks to a dash cam, the friend could provide police with footage that revealed the would-be scammer, who not only didn’t get the insurance settlement he’d planned for but received two hefty tickets instead.
Certainly, such moments are rare and accidents in RVs actually occur at one-third the rate of other vehicular incidents. But, considering the cost of RV repairs and the potential damage such a large vehicle can cause to other smaller vehicles, it’s good to know you can provide proof in cases where your liability is at stake.
Some systems have features that even make your driving safer. Some cameras have speed trap detection, for example, that remind you to slow down when limits suddenly drop (just be sure to check legal restrictions in areas where you travel as these devices can be against the law). Other cameras include sensors to warn you when you are approaching an obstacle or stopped vehicle that might be a danger.
While accident protection is the main reason RV owners use dash cams, there are other reasons to invest in a cam system. Many drivers like to use the systems to record special moments along the way, such as a moose crossing a road or a particularly spectacular vista. And because you can purchase systems with built-in GPS tracking you can return to those moments years later and still remember exactly where you were.
Finally, a good dash cam system can be an added element of security for your safety and to protect your belongings. Some cameras come with a parking mode that can monitor your surroundings when parked, including the interior of your RV, so that if someone breaks in or damages your vehicle while you’re out hiking, you’ll have evidence to provide police.
So if you think a dash cam system might be right for your RV, there are a few things you should consider before you buy:
- Price: Dash cams run from as low as $15 up to $700. A decent camera can be purchased in the $100 range, while a high quality system goes for around $200.
- G sensor: This is important since most cams record between 2 and 10 minutes of footage and then begin recording over the previous footage. A G sensor tells the camera you’ve been in an accident and preserves the footage from being recorded over so that you have it for later use.
- Resolution: The lowest resolution you will probably want is 1080 p. Those who want to use their cameras to preserve travel moments may want to opt for higher resolutions.
- Storage: Cameras usually use SD cards so you can opt for larger amounts of storage (up to a certain limit).
- Camera Angle: Wide angle lenses give you more field of view thus offering greater protection.
- Other features: You can opt for lots of extras, such as video screens for easier viewing, GPS tracking systems, additional rear camera coverage, and parking mode.
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Ivan Young is a writer from Happy Writers, Co. in partnership with Faxage online faxing service.
