Dash cams have become increasingly popular as a way to record video footage of your driving experience. Whether it’s for capturing incidents on the road or just for peace of mind, many drivers choose to install dash cameras in their vehicles. However, before you hit the road with a dash cam in Arkansas, it’s important to understand the state’s regulations and laws regarding their use. In this article, we’ll explore the key points you need to know about dash cam laws in Arkansas.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Arkansas?
The simple answer is yes—dash cams are legal in Arkansas. There are no specific state laws that ban the use of dash cameras in vehicles. In fact, many drivers in Arkansas use them for a variety of reasons, such as documenting accidents, capturing road conditions, or even monitoring driving behavior. The use of a dash cam is perfectly legal as long as it doesn’t interfere with your ability to drive safely.
Placement of Dash Cams
While dash cams are legal in Arkansas, their placement inside your vehicle is regulated to some extent. Arkansas law requires that anything mounted on your windshield should not block your view of the road. This means that when installing your dash cam, you must make sure that it is positioned in a way that doesn’t obstruct your line of sight.
For instance, it’s best to place your dash cam behind the rearview mirror or on the dashboard where it does not interfere with your ability to see out of the windshield. If a dash cam is mounted too low or too high and obstructs your vision, you could face penalties for violating the state’s laws related to obstructed views.
Recording Audio and Privacy Concerns
When it comes to recording video and audio, it’s important to be aware of Arkansas’ privacy laws. Arkansas is a one-party consent state when it comes to recording conversations, which means that you are allowed to record conversations as long as you are part of the conversation. However, this rule changes if the conversation is happening between other people and you are not involved.
If your dash cam records audio of conversations without the consent of those involved, it could potentially violate privacy laws, especially if the recording is done secretly. To stay on the safe side, it’s a good practice to set your dash cam to only record video, unless you’re in a situation where recording audio is necessary and you’re part of the conversation.
Dash Cam Footage as Evidence in Legal Matters
Dash cam footage can be a valuable tool in legal matters. In Arkansas, dash cam footage can be used as evidence in court or during insurance claims, as long as it’s relevant to the case. This includes situations where there’s a dispute over an accident, road rage incidents, or even unlawful behavior by another driver. However, it’s important to ensure that the footage is authentic and hasn’t been tampered with, as courts and insurance companies may question its credibility.
In case of an accident or a legal issue, having reliable dash cam footage could potentially protect you from false claims or provide evidence to back up your version of events.
What You Should Know Before Installing a Dash Cam
- Placement Matters: Make sure your dash cam is mounted in a way that does not obstruct your view while driving.
- Privacy Concerns: Be mindful of recording audio conversations. Avoid recording audio unless absolutely necessary and unless you are part of the conversation.
- Legal Evidence: Dash cam footage can be used as evidence in Arkansas, but ensure it’s clear and unaltered to be accepted in court.
- Do Not Block the Windshield: Any object that obstructs the windshield can result in penalties, so be careful where you place the camera.
In Arkansas, dash cams are legal and can provide important evidence in case of accidents or disputes. However, you should be mindful of how and where you place your camera to avoid obstructing your view. Additionally, recording conversations requires caution due to privacy laws, and it’s best to avoid recording audio unless necessary. With proper installation and responsible use, a dash cam can be a valuable asset for drivers in Arkansas, offering peace of mind and protection on the road.
SOURCES
[1] https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[2] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[3] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
[5] https://www.enjuris.com/blog/resources/dash-cam-laws-by-state/
