Dash cams have become an essential piece of equipment for Australian drivers. Whether you're dealing with insurance claims, documenting unsafe driving behaviour, or simply wanting peace of mind on your daily commute, a properly configured dash cam can be your most reliable witness on the road. However, simply mounting a dash cam on your windscreen isn't enough—you need to know how to maximise its effectiveness.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about getting the most from your dash cam, from optimal positioning to maintenance and using your footage effectively.
Optimal Dash Cam Positioning
The placement of your dash cam significantly impacts the quality and usefulness of your footage. Many drivers make the mistake of positioning their camera too high or too low, resulting in footage that misses crucial details during an incident.
- Mount the camera behind the rear-view mirror to minimise obstruction
- Position it in the top third of the windscreen
- Ensure the horizon sits roughly in the middle of the frame
- Angle slightly downward to capture number plates
- Check that the camera doesn't obstruct your view
In Australia, regulations vary by state regarding windscreen obstructions. Generally, dash cams should be mounted so they don't impair the driver's view. The area behind the rear-view mirror is typically the safest legal position, as it's already an obstructed zone.
Essential Settings to Configure
Out of the box, many dash cams have default settings that aren't optimal for Australian conditions. Taking a few minutes to configure your device properly can make a significant difference when you need to rely on your footage.
Video Quality Settings
Always set your dash cam to record at its highest resolution. While 1080p Full HD is adequate for most purposes, 2K or 4K recording provides clearer number plate capture, especially at highway speeds. Higher resolution is particularly valuable in low-light conditions common during early morning and evening commutes.
Loop Recording Duration
Most dash cams use loop recording, automatically overwriting the oldest footage when the SD card fills up. Set your loop duration to 3-5 minute segments. Shorter segments make it easier to find specific incidents, and if a file becomes corrupted, you only lose a few minutes rather than a longer recording.
Adjust your G-sensor sensitivity based on your typical driving conditions. If you frequently drive on rough roads or speed bumps, lower the sensitivity to prevent constant "event" recordings. In urban areas with smooth roads, higher sensitivity ensures impacts are captured and protected from being overwritten.
Date and Time Stamps
Always enable the date and time stamp feature. This information is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Ensure your dash cam's clock is accurate—some cameras sync via GPS, while others require manual setting. Check and adjust for daylight saving time changes.
Maintaining Your Dash Cam
A dash cam is only useful if it's working when you need it. Regular maintenance ensures your device remains reliable throughout its lifespan.
SD Card Management
The SD card is the most common point of failure in dash cam systems. Use a high-endurance SD card specifically designed for continuous recording—standard SD cards aren't built for the constant write cycles dash cams require. Format your SD card monthly to maintain optimal performance and prevent file system errors.
- Use Class 10 or UHS-I cards rated for continuous recording
- Choose high-endurance cards from reputable brands
- Format the card in the dash cam, not on a computer
- Replace SD cards every 1-2 years with heavy use
- Keep a spare SD card in your glovebox
Lens Cleaning
Dust, fingerprints, and grime accumulate on the lens over time, degrading video quality. Clean your dash cam lens weekly using a microfibre cloth. For stubborn marks, use a lens cleaning solution designed for optical glass. Avoid paper towels or tissues, which can scratch the lens coating.
Heat Protection
Australian summers are brutal on electronics. Dash cams mounted on windscreens can be exposed to temperatures exceeding 70°C in direct sunlight. Consider removing your dash cam when parking for extended periods, or use a windscreen sunshade to reduce interior temperatures. Some high-quality dash cams include capacitors instead of batteries, which handle heat better than lithium batteries.
Using Dash Cam Footage Effectively
Having footage is one thing; knowing how to use it effectively is another. Understanding the proper procedures can make the difference between a successful insurance claim and a disputed one.
After an Incident
If you're involved in an accident, don't announce that you have dash cam footage immediately. First, ensure everyone's safety and exchange details as required. Then, secure your footage—remove the SD card or transfer the relevant files to your phone before they can be overwritten. Most dash cams have an emergency button that locks the current recording from being overwritten.
Dash cam footage can work against you as well as for you. If the footage shows you were partially at fault, you may be legally obligated to disclose it. Consider consulting with a lawyer before submitting footage that could be ambiguous or potentially unfavourable.
Insurance Claims
Most Australian insurers now accept dash cam footage as evidence. When submitting a claim, provide the original, unedited footage. Any editing or modification can raise questions about the authenticity of the evidence. Keep your original files backed up in multiple locations.
Advanced Features Worth Using
Modern dash cams come with features that extend beyond basic recording. Understanding and utilising these can enhance your safety on the road.
Parking Mode
Parking mode activates recording when your vehicle detects motion or impact while parked. This is invaluable for capturing hit-and-run incidents in car parks. However, parking mode requires either hardwiring to your vehicle's electrical system or a dedicated battery pack to avoid draining your car battery.
GPS Logging
GPS-equipped dash cams record your speed and location alongside the video. This data can corroborate your account of an incident and prove you were driving within the speed limit. It's particularly useful for disputing incorrect speeding allegations or establishing the exact location of an accident.
Driver Assistance Alerts
Many modern dash cams include lane departure warnings, forward collision alerts, and speed camera notifications. While these shouldn't replace attentive driving, they can provide useful backup, especially during long drives when fatigue might affect your alertness.
Final Thoughts
A dash cam is only as good as its setup and maintenance. By following these guidelines—optimal positioning, proper configuration, regular maintenance, and understanding how to use your footage—you'll ensure your dash cam provides the protection and peace of mind it's designed to deliver.
Remember that a dash cam is a supplement to safe driving, not a replacement for it. Drive defensively, stay alert, and let your dash cam serve as your silent witness on Australian roads.