Dash cams, or dashboard cameras, are becoming a common feature in vehicles across the United States, providing drivers with an extra layer of protection while on the road. These small devices are used to record video footage of your journey, offering valuable evidence in the event of an accident or legal dispute.
However, when it comes to using dash cams in Arkansas, there are certain regulations and rules that drivers should be aware of. In this article, we will discuss the key laws surrounding dash cams in Arkansas to ensure you are informed and compliant while using these devices.
What is a Dash Cam?
A dash cam is a small camera mounted on the dashboard or windscreen of a vehicle, typically recording video footage of the road ahead or the surroundings.
Dash cams often have built-in features like GPS tracking, motion detection, and even collision sensors. Many drivers use them to protect themselves against false claims, capture accidents, or document scenic road trips.
Legal Considerations for Using Dash Cams in Arkansas
While dash cams can provide essential evidence in case of an accident, it’s important to understand the legal guidelines regarding their use in Arkansas.
1. Privacy Laws
One of the primary concerns for dash cam users in Arkansas is privacy. The state has laws that prohibit the recording of private conversations without the consent of all parties involved.
This is in line with Arkansas’s “two-party consent” rule, meaning that if your dash cam captures audio along with video, you must ensure that all people in the vehicle or within the camera’s range are aware that they are being recorded.
However, if you are only recording video and not audio, you are not required to inform others about the recording.
For example, if you have passengers in your car, you may not need to get their explicit consent for video recording. But if your dash cam records audio, you must ensure that everyone in the car is aware and agrees to being recorded.
2. Mounting the Dash Cam
In Arkansas, there are specific rules regarding where you can mount your dash cam on your vehicle. According to the Arkansas State Police, a dash cam should be mounted in a way that does not obstruct the driver’s view of the road.
It is recommended that the dash cam be placed behind the rearview mirror to avoid blocking the driver’s line of sight. Mounting the device in other areas that could potentially impair vision or distract the driver could result in a traffic violation.
3. Recording While Driving
Arkansas law allows the use of dash cams to record while driving, as long as it does not cause any distractions or obstruct the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely.
In some cases, dash cams come with features like voice control, making it easier for drivers to operate the device without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. This is especially useful to avoid distractions while driving.
4. Using Dash Cam Footage as Evidence
Dash cam footage can be incredibly useful in legal situations, such as insurance claims, accident investigations, or even in court. In Arkansas, video recordings from dash cams can be used as evidence in both civil and criminal cases.
However, for the footage to be admissible in court, it must meet certain criteria. The video must be authentic, and the camera must not have been tampered with. Additionally, the footage should clearly show the relevant details of the incident, such as the location, time, and the event itself.
If you plan to use dash cam footage as evidence in a legal proceeding, it’s important to ensure that the footage is properly preserved and not altered in any way. You may also want to keep a backup of the footage on a separate device, in case you need to refer to it later.
5. Insurance Discounts
Some insurance companies in Arkansas offer discounts to drivers who use dash cams. These discounts may be provided because the dash cam can help prove that the driver was not at fault in an accident, reducing the risk for the insurance company.
If you have a dash cam, it’s worth checking with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for any discounts.
Benefits of Using Dash Cams in Arkansas
Using a dash cam in Arkansas has several advantages, including:
- Protection Against False Claims: Dash cams can provide clear evidence of what happened during an accident, protecting you from false claims made by other drivers.
- Documentation of Scenic Drives: Arkansas is known for its beautiful landscapes, and many people use dash cams to capture scenic road trips across the state.
- Improved Driving Behavior: Knowing that your actions are being recorded may encourage safer driving habits, such as obeying speed limits and following traffic laws more strictly.
- Security: Dash cams can also be helpful in parking lots, capturing footage of potential vandalism or theft when the vehicle is parked.
Dash cams are a great tool for drivers in Arkansas, offering a variety of benefits such as improved safety, documentation of incidents, and even insurance discounts.
However, it is important to ensure that you are using your dash cam within the bounds of state regulations, particularly concerning privacy and where you mount the device.
By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of your dash cam while staying compliant with Arkansas’s laws.
