Drivers Face £1,000 Fines and Penalty Points Over Dashcam Errors

Drivers using front or rear dashcams may face fines of up to £1,000 and penalty points if they fail to notify their car insurance providers or improperly install their devices, warns Motor Match. According to their research, 18% of motorists could unknowingly be jeopardising their coverage and legal standing unless they carefully follow guidelines about dashcam use.

Motor Match emphasizes that not disclosing the installation of a hard-wired dashcam can be considered non-disclosure of material facts. This may result in insurers rejecting claims after accidents and lead to increased premiums in the future.

“While dashcams offer enhanced security and accountability, drivers must abide by their insurer’s policies to keep their coverage valid,” Motor Match advises. They also underscore the necessity of informing insurers about any modifications, including hard-wiring dashcams, so insurance policies accurately reflect the vehicle’s condition and avoid complications during claims.

Incorrectly installed dashcams can obstruct the driver’s field of vision, violating Rule 30 of The Highway Code. This infraction carries penalties of up to £1,000 and three penalty points. Ensuring dashcams do not block visibility is therefore essential to avoid these fines.

Motor Match further cautions that hard-wiring a dashcam alters a vehicle’s electrical system, categorizing it as a modification that must be reported to insurers. They also warn against operating dashcams while driving, which is comparable to using a handheld mobile device and breaches Rule 149. This can lead to fines up to £1,000 and six penalty points. Drivers should ensure dashcams are set up and activated only before starting their journeys.

Finally, drivers are urged to be cautious when sharing dashcam footage publicly. Doing so may violate privacy laws and impact legal proceedings, as the Crown Prosecution Service advises against making such footage public to ensure its admissibility in court.