Dash cams have become a popular tool for drivers who want to capture footage of their time on the road. Whether for safety, security, or evidence in case of an accident, having a dash cam in your vehicle can offer peace of mind. However, if you’re considering installing a dash cam in Missouri, it’s important to understand the state’s regulations to ensure you’re using the device legally.
In Missouri, there are no state laws that specifically ban the use of dash cams. In fact, using a dash cam while driving is generally legal as long as it does not obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with the operation of the vehicle. Missouri law does have regulations regarding the placement of objects on your windshield or dashboard. For example, the law prohibits objects that could block the driver’s line of sight, which means that if a dash cam is placed in a way that obstructs the driver’s view of the road, it could be considered illegal.
When installing a dash cam in Missouri, it’s essential to ensure that it is positioned in a way that doesn’t impede your ability to drive safely. Typically, dash cams are mounted on the windshield or attached to the rearview mirror. To comply with Missouri’s regulations, the dash cam should be placed in a way that leaves the driver with an unobstructed view of the road, especially in critical areas such as the driver’s side and the center of the windshield. If a dash cam is too large or positioned improperly, it could violate state laws concerning driver visibility, and you could face fines or even be asked to remove it.
In addition to visibility concerns, privacy laws also come into play when using a dash cam. While Missouri is a one-party consent state, meaning only one person involved in a conversation needs to consent to recording, you should still be cautious when recording in public spaces. If you are recording audio along with video, you should be aware of the possibility that audio recordings could capture private conversations between people without their consent. In general, it’s best to avoid recording conversations or interactions where others might have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside your car or in a private space.
As dash cam footage can sometimes be used in legal proceedings, it’s important to note that the footage may be subject to Missouri’s laws on evidence. For instance, if a dash cam records an accident, that footage could be used in court to support or dispute claims in a personal injury case or an insurance claim. However, the footage must be preserved properly, and the owner of the dash cam must follow the correct legal procedures if the footage is requested by law enforcement or in a legal dispute.
One consideration when using a dash cam in Missouri is the potential to capture video footage of other drivers. If a dash cam records a traffic incident or accident, the footage may be used as evidence. However, sharing this footage publicly without consent could lead to legal issues related to privacy or defamation, especially if the footage shows another individual in a compromising situation. As a best practice, you should avoid uploading or sharing footage unless necessary for a legal case or as part of an insurance claim.
In Missouri, the use of dash cams is generally legal, as long as the device does not obstruct your view while driving and is used in compliance with privacy laws. The dash cam should be installed in a way that ensures it does not interfere with the operation of your vehicle or block the driver’s line of sight. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the potential privacy concerns that arise when recording audio or video, and to use the footage responsibly. When used properly, dash cams can be a valuable tool for drivers to enhance safety and provide evidence in case of accidents or disputes. Always make sure your dash cam setup complies with Missouri’s regulations to avoid legal issues.
Sources
[1] https://www.bwoattorneys.com/dash-cams-missouri-accident-claims/
[2] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[3] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
[5] https://www.enjuris.com/blog/resources/dash-cam-laws-by-state/
