A dash-cam is not just for Christmas, say UK insurers

WHILE it may not be the top of everyone’s Christmas stocking list, a dash-cam could potentially save some motorists from a hefty bill, according to insurers.

A good-quality dash-cam can be bought for as little as £50 and can provide detailed photographic evidence of the circumstances of a motor accident that could save you thousands of pounds and a lot of inconvenience and distress, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Ben Howarth, ABI senior policy adviser, motor and liability, says: “There are not many Christmas buys that can quickly more than pay for themselves. A dash-cam is not just for Christmas, but is your in-car eyewitness, providing evidence that can save your thousands of pounds every time you get behind the wheel.

“Shop around and read online reviews to make sure that you buy a reliable model.”

Last year, insurers dealt with 833,000 motor accident claims that involved more than one driver – over 2,000 claims every single day. In some cases where any blame is disputed, dash-cam evidence could make all the difference in confirming where any fault may lie, and so speed up the handling of a claim.

A dash-cam could also protect you from becoming a victim of staged accident gangs, who put innocent motorists and their passengers at risk. Dash-cam footage can help show if a crash was deliberately staged by criminals hoping to make money from insurance payouts.

A dash-cam could also save you some money in the shorter term, as the ABI says it maybe possible to get cheaper car insurance if you have one – so check with your insurer. An insurance broker may also be able to help.