Dashcam when travelling overseas?

[DavidSam0230]

This is kind of a money question, as it touches on the subject of liability.

We're planning a trip overseas (UK) and expect to drive a lot. I've driven on the left side before and never had a problem. In the interest of protecting ourselves from tickets, I am contemplating getting a dashcam so that if necessary I can have video proof of what occurred.

Does this seem like a good idea? I'm sure it can come in handy for other purposes, and can even be a neat travel log.

[rennigade]

dash cams are a good idea whether you are overseas or in the states.

[msomnipotent]

Some countries don't allow them, some won't allow you to record people's faces or license plates. Then there is the liability issue when someone breaks your window to grab it if you forget to hide it while parked. And you have to get a power converter to charge the power pack that charges the dash cam if your rental doesn't have a USB port. But other than that, I would use one. I have one in my car right now.

[kork13]

Dash cams are useful for getting a ticket thrown out, or proving liability/lack of liability in an accident. Very common practice in some places overseas, but check the local laws, because as stated, some places do have restrictions on recording people without prior approval, or police, or other things.

Also keep in mind, almost NEVER should you try to use your dash cam video to convince a police officer. It only leads to more problems. Just save the video, and fight it when you go to court. Quite frankly, as an American, you start at a disadvantage in the eyes of foreign law enforcement. That's just the way it is. Don't try to argue with the local police, you can go from speeding ticket to arrested very quickly, and "due process" is very, very different in some countries.

[Drake3287]

Agree with having a Dash Cam although I know some countries don't allow them but at the same time almost no one can see it anyway.

I purchased a Rexing V1 Dash Cam last year for just about $100. and it's been a great inexpensive investment. Great video quality and it's always fun to go back and watch close call's and such although luckily I haven't been in an accident with it (yet!).

Just last weekend we were in Lake Tahoe at night when a bear ran in front of us, we didn't hit him but it made for a good video later plus we could have easily showed it to our insurance company if needed.

Sort of surprised that more new car's don't come with them considering there so cheap now. Great insurance if your in the right especially when it's the other guys story vs yours.

[GrimJack]

When you have time, google Russian Dash Cams. The drivers there all have dash cams for those very reasons. The compilations are horrifying but you have to keep in mind that most dash cam videos are boring. The UK is one of the most cctv-ed countries in the world so it should be okay. There was a punk-rock group that could not afford to make a music video so they performed for free around London then FOIA-ed the videos and spliced them into a 'free' music video.