Dashcams are quickly becoming an essential technology for commercial truck drivers. Installing a dashcam in your truck can be a game-changer when it comes to your safety and security on the road. Take a look at the Dashcam Market Share by Region
Source: BusinessWire
This comprehensive guide will walk you through choosing, installing, and using a dashcam to improve safety and provide vital evidence in the event of an accident.
Understanding the Importance of Truck Dashcams
Dashboard cameras, or “dash cams”, are video cameras that are mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle. For commercial truck drivers, having a high-quality dashcam is invaluable. While the popularity of truck dash cams spans various sectors the value they bring to the commercial truck drivers is specifically notable. So, investing in the best dash cams for truckers provides the following benefits:
- Enhancing driver safety- Dashcams help increase accountability and encourage safer driving practices. The footage can also provide evidence of hit-and-run accidents.
- Resolving insurance claims – Dashcam footage can clearly show fault and expedite the claims process after accidents. Major insurance providers encourage drivers to install them.
- Protecting against fraud – Video evidence safeguards truck drivers against fraudulent claims of accidents and injuries. This prevents inflated or false medical and lawsuit costs.
The global dashcam market is booming. It was valued at $3.38 billion in 2021 and is predicted to grow 9.5% annually through 2030 as dashcam adoption spreads. For truck fleets, outfitting vehicles with dashcams is becoming a necessary cost of doing business. Here’s a visual representation of dashcam adoption over the years:
Choosing the Right Dashcam for Your Truck
With the sheer variety of truck dash cam models available, it’s essential to select one well-suited to your specific needs:
- Video quality – Look for a camera with HD 1080p or higher video resolution and night recording capabilities. This ensures license plates and details are captured.
- Field of view – A wide 140-180° field of view is ideal for recording both roadways and in-cab events.
- Storage – Dashcams store data locally on SD cards. Choose one with at least 128GB capacity for ample continuous loop recording.
- Durability – Models meant for trucking are vibration- and shock-resistant and can handle extreme temperatures. Avoid cheap consumer-grade cameras.
- Extra features – GPS, driver assistance alerts, Crash Detection to save footage and built-in WiFi are useful features to consider.
Out of dash cam types, single-channel front-facing models are the most popular, holding over 70% market share in 2021. But dual-channel (front and interior cab) and backup cam combos provide comprehensive incident documentation.
Pre-Installation Checklist
To ensure a safe and smooth installation, gather these supplies:
1. Tools Needed
– Screwdriver set
– Adhesive mounting tape or brackets
– Cable routing tools
– Wire strippers and crimpers
2. Safety Precautions
– Turn off the truck and remove the keys from the ignition
– Use wheel chocks to prevent rolling
– Wear safety glasses
– Check the owner’s manual regarding electrical modifications
Step-By-Step Installation Process
Follow this methodical process to install your dashcam perfectly:
1. Choose the Mounting Location
Follow these instructions to choose a proper mounting location for your truck dashcam.
– Place towards the center behind the rearview mirror with a 150° downward angle
– Avoid interference with a driving view and airbag deployment
– Check state laws – some prohibit objects lower than 5″ near the windshield
2. Attach Mount
– Clean the windshield thoroughly in the mounting area
– Peel the adhesive backing and firmly press it onto the surface
– For removable brackets, use a screwdriver to tighten securely
3. Adjust Camera
– Attach the camera to the mount arm and adjust the angles
– Point towards the middle of the windshield with an unobstructed forward view
4. Route Power Cable
– Use plastic pry tools to safely lift trim panels and threading cable behind
– Avoid airbags, steering, footwells, and other pinch hazards
– Connect to fuse panel or OBD-II port for switched power
5. Connect Power
– Review the wiring diagram for camera power specs
– Add an inline fuse connected to a 12V or 24V supply or battery
– Use crimpers to attach ring terminals to power and ground wires
6. Configure Camera
– Insert the SD card and attach a WiFi antenna if equipped
– Power on the camera and connect to its WiFi network
– Use the smartphone app to adjust settings, resolution, etc.
Post-Installation Checks
Before hitting the road,
- Verify that the camera location does not obstruct the driving view or reflective glare,
- The adhesive or bracket mount is tightly secured
- The recording indicator displays when powered on
- The footage quality is sharp with accurate color and exposure
- The settings and features perform as configured.
Periodically check the dashcam system and re-secure the mount if vibration loosens it. Also, reformat the SD card monthly to clear corrupted files.
Maximizing the Use of Your Dashcam
Follow best practices to get the most value from your investment:
- Update firmware when new versions are released for optimal performance
- Mark cameras are in use for safety and legal purposes
- Review and catalog footage weekly; save any relevant clips
- Download and back up important videos to multiple locations
Proactively record hazards or collisions you witness that don’t involve your truck. The footage could help others who were involved.
Most importantly, resist tampering with video or disabling the dashcam after an incident before consulting your manager or attorney.
Final Thoughts
Equipping your truck with a well-installed dash cam provides vital protection and evidence in the event of an accident or false claim. Following this guide, you can correctly choose and install a dashcam system optimized for the rigors of life on the road.
With proactive use, your investment in this technology will pay dividends in safety and security. You need to ensure that your dashcam is installed properly so that it functions with efficiency, enhances safety, and also provides you with valuable evidence in case of accidents.
Find a suitable location that does not have any obstruction to the view to mount the dashcam and connect the power source accurately. And at last, test how the dashcam performs before you start driving on the road. By following these installation instructions for your truck dash cam you can ensure the utmost safety and successful installation.