Dash cams are becoming more popular across the U.S., including in Delaware. They’re small cameras you put on your windshield or dashboard to record the road while you drive. Many people use them to protect themselves from false accident claims, bad drivers, or even to capture strange events on the road. But are dash cams legal in Delaware? This article explains the rules you need to follow if you’re using one in the state.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Delaware?
Yes, dash cams are legal in Delaware. You are allowed to use them in your personal vehicle to record video while driving. However, there are certain rules you must follow to avoid breaking any laws.
The main things to be careful about are how you mount the camera, what it records, and how you use the footage. Delaware also has privacy and obstruction rules that can apply to dash cam use.
Where Can You Mount a Dash Cam in Delaware?
In Delaware, there are no specific state laws that ban dash cams on the windshield, but you must make sure that your camera does not block your view of the road. Obstructing the windshield is a safety issue and could get you pulled over.
It’s best to mount the dash cam behind the rearview mirror, high on the windshield, or directly on the dashboard. This way, it doesn’t distract you or interfere with your view.
Is Audio Recording Legal in Delaware Dash Cams?
Yes, Delaware is a one-party consent state when it comes to audio recording. That means you can legally record audio as long as one person in the conversation (which can be you) knows it’s being recorded.
So, if your dash cam records sound inside your car, and you’re the one recording, it’s legal — even if your passengers don’t know. But to avoid any problems, it’s still a good idea to let people know you’re recording audio.
Can You Record People Without Their Permission?
In public places, like roads and highways, there is no expectation of privacy, so it’s legal to record what’s happening around you with a dash cam. However, you cannot use your dash cam to secretly record people in private places, like bathrooms or private property. That would break privacy laws.
Can Dash Cam Footage Be Used in Court?
Yes, dash cam footage can be used as evidence in Delaware. If you’re in an accident, your recording can help prove who was at fault. Police and insurance companies often accept dash cam videos to support your side of the story.
But remember, if your footage shows that you broke the law, it can also be used against you.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
If your dash cam blocks your view or becomes a distraction, you might get a traffic citation. Also, misusing recordings — like sharing private footage online without consent — could get you into legal trouble under privacy laws.
So always use your dash cam responsibly, keep it safely mounted, and respect people’s privacy.
Dash cams are completely legal in Delaware, and they can be a smart way to protect yourself while driving. You can record video and audio as long as you don’t block your view or violate anyone’s privacy. Mount your camera in a safe spot, avoid recording private conversations without consent, and use the footage wisely. Dash cams can help you feel safer and even save you from trouble during an accident — just make sure you follow the rules while using one.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[2] https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[3] https://law-de.com/the-role-of-dashcams-in-strengthening-auto-accident-claims-2/
[4] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[5] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
