Are Dash Cameras Legal in Washington State? Protecting You on the Road

As a compassionate and knowledgeable ally to accident victims, the Elsner Law Firm understands the challenges you face on the road. Today, we’re here to tackle an important question: Are dash cameras legal in Washington State?

Dash cameras, also known as dashboard cameras, are devices that are mounted on your vehicle’s dashboard. Their purpose? To be an impartial witness, recording every detail that unfolds on the road in case of an accident.

In Washington State, dash cams are legal, with a few laws that you must be aware of. It is against the law to mount them on your windshield, as they can obstruct your view of the road. Instead, place them securely on your dashboard to ensure compliance.

But why should you consider investing in a dash cam? The benefits might surprise you. Dash cams have proven to be incredibly helpful in protecting drivers’ interests. From hit-and-runs to accidents and more, these silent witnesses have saved drivers money in the long run. The peace of mind that your vehicle is protected by an unbiased observer is truly priceless.

Now, you might be thinking, “I’m a good driver! I never get into accidents.” This is a common refrain for those hesitant to get a dash cam. While you may be a safe and responsible driver, not everyone on the road follows the same playbook. Accidents do happen, and a dash cam is not meant to prevent them. Instead, it serves as a recording device, providing an objective account of what transpired. Insurance companies and law enforcement officers welcome dash cam footage, as it offers a clear picture of the incident and shields you from baseless blame.

Even if you’re not seriously injured or your vehicle isn’t severely damaged, the blame game can still rear its head. Having a dash cam puts you on the safe side, ensuring you have video evidence to support your side of the story.

But what about those who think, “I don’t drive enough to need a dash cam. I have a car alarm.” Unfortunately, the safety of your vehicle doesn’t end when you park it. Who hasn’t experienced the frustration of finding scratches, dents, or even worse, after leaving their car unattended? Whether it’s a hit-and-run, vandalism, or theft, accidents can happen when you’re away from your vehicle. Car alarm systems are designed to deter thieves, but they often fall short in preventing “smash-and-grab” break-ins. Dash cams offer parking surveillance features, providing the peace of mind you need wherever you are. With the ability to access all data remotely from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is protected.

Now, you might be wondering, “Will installing a dash cam lower my insurance premiums?” The answer isn’t straightforward. While not all car insurance providers offer discounts for having a dash cam, it can indirectly impact your premiums in various ways. The footage captured by your dash cam can provide crucial information about who was involved in an accident, serving as a powerful tool in determining fault. Without video evidence, assigning blame becomes much more challenging, potentially resulting in increased insurance premiums.

Furthermore, the built-in GPS in your dash cam allows you to timestamp your footage with the date, time, and speed. This information can be vital when disputing an unfair driving ticket that could otherwise drive up your insurance premium. Additionally, dash cams protect you against auto insurance fraud, revealing the truth about an incident and shielding you from unjust financial burdens.

Now, you might be thinking, “Can’t I just use my GoPro or smartphone as a dash cam?” While these devices can serve as alternatives, there are a few things to consider. Mounting your GoPro or smartphone securely on the dashboard or windshield can be challenging, not to mention their lack of auto-start capabilities. It’s all too easy to forget to start the recording before you hit the road. Conversely, dash cams are designed to power on and off automatically, requiring no driver interaction. Furthermore, GoPros and smartphones are not built for continuous, long-term recording. In extreme temperatures, they may overheat and shut down to cool off. Dash cams, on the other hand, are purpose-built and tested to provide reliable recording regardless of the weather.

We recommend shopping with Black Box My Car for all your dash cams needs!

Investing in a dash cam is one of the best steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle. Beyond offering peace of mind, dash cams act as unbiased witnesses, safeguard against auto insurance fraud, and provide valuable evidence in assigning fault during accidents. At the Elsner Law Firm, our dedicated team is committed to providing expert legal guidance to accident victims. Let us help you navigate the legal challenges you may face after an accident and remember to always stay safe on the road. Contact us today at 206-447-1425.