Dash for dash cams

The number of motorists now using dash cams to record their journeys on UK roads has more than doubled in the last year to 2.9 million.

New research by RAC Shop has revealed that almost a quarter (24%) think that having a dash cam installed would improve their driving.

In addition, one in five (20%) have previously been involved in an accident where there was a dispute over who was at fault, and 69% of whom believe a dash cam would have helped them solve their case.

With Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) set to rise to from 6% to 9.5% on November 1, the results indicate that 63% think insurance companies should encourage the use of dash cams, especially if it guarantees a reduction to the cost of their policy – an incentive the RAC has introduced.

The RAC Shop survey also shows that men are three times more likely to own a dash cam (13%) than women (4%).

Older drivers would appear to be the most tech savvy, as the majority (22%) of motorists that already own a dash cam are aged 50 and over, followed by those aged 35-39 (6%).

The survey also suggests that dash cams are the latest must-have in-car gadget as more than half (52%) of motorists are currently considering purchasing one, placing it at the top of this year’s Christmas car tech wish-list.

“Not only do dash cams encourage safer driving and provide excellent protection against insurance fraud, they can also now save you money on your car insurance,” explained the RAC’s Lynn Hayzelden.