Georgia Dash Cam Regulations: Key Facts for Drivers in 2024. Dash cams, or dashboard cameras, are increasingly gaining popularity in the US. Georgia is no exception. These devices enable you to record video evidence of car crashes, road incidents, or simply nice scenic drives.
Dash cams are permitted in Georgia; however, drivers must note a few laws and rules to ensure they are using these devices lawfully and appropriately.
This blog will discuss Georgia’s dash cam rules, including if they are legal, where they must be placed, and how they relate to privacy laws.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Georgia?
There is no law against dash cams in Georgia. None of the states have any kind of rule that says you cannot use these devices. Most drivers install dash cams simply because they want video proof that may help them win insurance claims, in court cases, or just to follow their routes.
Dash cams are legal but there are restrictions regarding where and how they may be placed. Such rules are for safety and also to avoid violating individuals’ privacy when driving.
Placement Restrictions
A Georgia code mandates that automobiles should always be able to have an unrestricted view of the road. According to Georgia Code § 40-8-73.1, obstructions of any sort are not to be affixed on the windscreen so that they obstruct the driver’s vision.
For this reason, when you put a dash cam inside your car, it can not be placed in a position blocking your vision or obstructing your view to see the road.
Many dash cams are mounted behind the rearview mirror, where they will not interfere with the view of the driver. Thus, they can be followed as a rule. You could also decide to place your dash cam directly on the dashboard.
It does not matter where the gadget is mounted; it should not interfere with your view or distract you while driving.
If you break this rule, you could get a ticket or fine, especially if the police officer thinks the dash cam is blocking your view of the road.
Recording Audio: Consent Laws in Georgia
If your Georgia dash cam records sound, that is one of the most important law things to think about. Georgia has a rule that only one person can agree to an audio recording.
It also means that if your dash cam records conversations taking place within your automobile, then at least one person of those having the conversation must give their consent to being recorded. Georgia Code § 16-11-62 spells this law out.
If you are the driver and your dash cam is recording sound, you are legally allowed to do so because you agreed to it. There may be problems though if there are people in the car who do not know they are being taped.
It would be wise to inform passengers that the dash cam records audio to avoid any potential legal issues. If a passenger dislikes it, you might want to turn off the recording feature for that ride.
Dash Cam Footage as Evidence
The usage of dash cam video in courts and court cases, traffic accidents, etc., is gaining grounds nowadays. If the standards for proof are satisfied, the dash cam video is accepted as proof in the state courts of Georgia.
This video might prove to be very important where no one can determine at which end is the error. For instance, hitting a person and running off. Both people involved in accidents could claim they are not liable. And there would not be any witnesses in those cases.
It’s worthy of note that dash cam video won’t all qualify as proof.
For example, video editing or trimming would question whether it is indeed an actual video. Ensuring the video is taken from the original form will effectively produce usable evidence in a case.
Privacy Issues
It may be true that through a dash cam video there may be some informative benefits; however, in private settings, the Georgia, like federal law respects private spaces and the right to individual’s privacy.
Recording people without their consent in areas where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside homes or private property, may have legal implications.
It is essential to note that public roads do not provide the same degree of privacy as private spaces. Thus, recording footage on public roads is usually permissible.
In case of this, you should use it in recording people in secluded places or areas that don’t fall within the bounds of road activity.
Insurance Implications
Most companies in Georgia are now aware of the benefits of a dash cam. Some will give discounts to drivers for using a dash cam; this is because they offer evident proof in case of a mishap or claim.
Dash cam footage can also speed up the claims process because it reduces disputes over fault.
However, not all insurance companies offer these benefits and the policies may vary between companies.
If you are planning to use a dash cam, it is worth contacting your insurance company to find out if there are incentives or requirements related to dash cam use.
Conclusion
In Georgia, dash cams are permitted and are used by many. They can record accidents and be used as proof in court.
However, it is essential to follow the state’s placement laws, know the rules for audio recording permission, and protect people’s right to privacy. You can use a dash cam legally and successfully if you follow these steps.
