BRITS WARNED DASHCAMS COULD INVALIDATE THEIR CAR INSURANCE

With dashcam ownership surging across the UK, experts are warning that improper installation could leave drivers unknowingly uninsured.

A recent survey by motoring experts at Tiger.co.uk, revealed that 62% now own a dashcam, with many viewing it as an essential tool for protection against fraud and for supporting insurance claims.

The rising popularity of dashcams follows growing concerns over road-related crime, including vehicle theft and ‘crash for cash’ scams, particularly amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Dashcams can provide vital evidence in the event of an accident or dispute, helping to clarify fault and potentially saving drivers from fraudulent claims.

‘Crash for cash’ refers to staged accidents where criminals deliberately cause a collision or make false claims about accidents that never occurred.

Between June 2021 and July 2024 alone, these scams accounted for an estimated £70 million in fraudulent claims, according to City of London police.*

Yet despite the increased popularity of dashcams, 76% of users remain unaware that hardwiring the device to their vehicle is considered a modification.

Failing to notify an insurer about modifications could lead to a policy being invalidated and leave drivers unprotected when making a claim.

A modified car includes any alteration to the car that results in it feeling, driving, or looking different from the manufacturer’s standard.

Examples of modifications that drivers should notify their insurer about include tinted windows, alloy wheels, upgraded exhaust systems, and engine tuning.

Using a USB port or connecting via a smartphone app does not normally count as a vehicle modification, however, it is still advised that motorists inform their insurance provider to ensure they are fully protected and unlock any potential reductions to their premium with this added security feature.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk said: “Dashcams have significantly increased in popularity over recent years with the surge of fake ‘crash for cash’ accidents, as motorists try to protect themselves from fraudulent claims.

“Dashcams also help insurers see who is at fault, providing vital evidence in the event of an accident. However, if the dashcam isn’t declared to your insurer, it could actually invalidate the insurance, so it’s always best to keep your provider in the loop, especially if it’s hardwired to the car battery.

“Hardwiring a dashcam involves connecting it directly to your car’s electrical system, which alters the manufacturer’s original specifications and is therefore considered a modification that must be disclosed to your insurer.

“Before installing a dashcam, there are a few things to consider, like its position, how it’s connected, and ensuring that you use the footage or sound in a GDPR compliant way.

“Once fully informed, some insurance providers see a dashcam as an additional safety feature that may help bring down premium prices – acting as a deterrent to thieves and protecting drivers from fake claims.”

What to consider before installing a dashcam:

1.Notify your insurer about the installation

Always inform your insurer of any car modifications, including hardwiring a dashcam, as this could affect your premium and potentially invalidate your cover.

2.Position your dashcam correctly

When installing a dashcam, ensure it doesn’t obscure your view of the road. It should be mounted behind the rear-view mirror to comply with legal requirements and avoid distractions while driving. Not having full view of the road could land drivers a £1000 fine and three penalty points.

3.Decide between hardwiring or plug-in installation

Hardwiring is a great way to permanently include a dashcam and can unlock additional features on the device, however it is classed as a car modification. USB plug-in models are less likely to be considered as a modification – either way, you need to update your insurer to help protect your policy.

4.Ensure GDPR compliance

Dashcams raise privacy concerns, so make sure you handle footage and audio recordings in line with GDPR regulations, which includes using its content for driver monitoring and insurance claims. Footage from dashcams can be sent to the police via the National Dash Cam Safety Portal.

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